The (Best-Case Scenario) Disaster Handbook

By Susan Flansburg

When Jodi O’Donnell asked me to write this series of stories for the summer issue of Iowa State University Foundation’s Forward magazine, I chirped, “Sure!”

Little did I know that the stories would follow me to bed every night.

One spoke to a fear I’ve nursed since childhood and the Wizard of Oz: that I’d get spun into outer space by a tornado.

The other 2 represented all-new ways to be menaced, one by electrical grid hackers and the other by disease pandemic.

These are immense challenges with the potential to change and end life.

The good news is, Iowa State researchers are making incredible gains against them.

One of the most amazing gains - at least to me - is what they’re learning about tornado damage. To some extent, a twister’s damage is not entirely random!

I’m delighted to have the opportunity not only to learn like this, but to contribute to the discussion we should be having around such social needs as preparedness.

I’m also glad Iowa State is ON IT. It lets me sleep nights. :)