Supply Chain Disruptions and Shortages

Supply chain disruptions occur when the movement of goods—such as food, fuel, medical supplies, or essential materials—is delayed, halted, or rerouted due to internal or external shocks. These disruptions can be caused by natural disasters, global conflict, economic collapse, labor shortages, cyberattacks, or pandemics.

When supply chains break down, it often leads to panic buying, hoarding, skyrocketing prices, and shortages of everyday necessities. Modern society depends heavily on just-in-time logistics, meaning most cities and stores only carry a few days’ worth of critical supplies at any given time.

Commonly Affected Resources

  • Food and groceries
  • Fuel and energy supplies (gasoline, propane, electricity)
  • Medicine and medical equipment
  • Electronics and technology components
  • Cleaning and hygiene products
  • Construction and industrial goods

Causes of Disruption

  • Cyber attacks (Disrupted logistics and tracking)
  • International conflict (Export bans, tariffs, or embargoes)
  • Natural disasters (Ports flooded or highways closed)
  • Pandemics (Factory and labor shutdowns)
  • Transportation breakdowns (Trucker strikes, rail accidents)

Preparedness Tips

Stockpile essentials

  • Build a rotating pantry with 30–90 days of shelf-stable food
  • Store extra:
    • Water and purification tablets
    • OTC medications and prescription backups
    • Hygiene supplies: soap, toothbrushes, feminine products
    • Infant care items if needed: formula, diapers
  • Track expiration dates and use FIFO (First In, First Out) system

Diversify resource access

  • Get to know local producers, farmers’ markets, co-ops, and CSAs
  • Learn about bulk food buying and storage
  • Consider growing herbs or vegetables at home
  • Build or join mutual aid networks in your community

During a Disruption

What to do:

  • Resist panic buying—it worsens shortages
  • Purchase only what you need and leave some for others
  • Follow local news for supply status and distribution sites
  • If possible, reduce usage and stretch current supplies

What to expect:

  • Rationing in stores
  • Limits on quantities per customer
  • Temporary store closures or reduced hours
  • Delays in online or mail-order deliveries

Long-Term Resilience

  • Maintain a low-waste lifestyle
  • Learn skills like:
    • Food preservation (canning, dehydrating)
    • Bartering and trading within trusted groups
    • Cooking from basic staples (rice, beans, flour, oils)
  • Explore DIY solutions for cleaning, repairs, and sanitation

Key Resources

  • USDA Food Supply and Emergency Resources
     usda.gov
  • Feeding America – Food Bank Directory
     feedingamerica.org
  • National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) – Supply Chain Updates
     nam.org

Recommended Apps

  • Local Food Directories – Find farms, CSAs, and farmer markets
    Varies by region (also check localharvest.org)
  • Olio – Share excess food and supplies locally
    olioex.com
  • Too Good To Go – Find surplus food at reduced cost
    toogoodtogo.com