LAUSR

This paper applies a duration model to analyze factors that explain the delay in reopening an impacted business in South Texas after Hurricane Harvey struck the region. Other than property damage, the duration of a business closure spell following the storm depended on the type of business and various characteristics of its owner. Reflecting the vital role that social capital plays in disaster resilience, local chamber members tended to reopen their businesses sooner than their non-member counterparts. Yet there is evidence in support of the vulnerability of female chamber members. In addition to social networks, the finding of spatial interdependence implies that business owners' decision to resume operations following a disaster is influenced by the decisions of their neighbors. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.