3 Reasons to Avoid Panic Buying Before a Snowstorm in Indiana

The first week of January 2025 brought a huge snowstorm to kick off the new year, and while some were prepared, others were clearly not.

READ MORE: Multiple So. Indiana Counties Under Red Travel Advisory Level

Over the last five years or so, I've made a weekly trip to the grocery store to restock my house. My most recent shopping trip happened to be just a day before Winter Storm Blair swept over the tri-state. My list was simple, yet it was hard to find even the most basic items, as many of the store shelves had already been cleared out by folks worried about the impending weather. While I wasn't able to get everything on my list, it wasn't a huge deal, as I'm usually prepared for situations like these. That said, leaving the store shelves bare in such a short amount of time comes with many negative consequences.

Panic Buying in 2025

Panic buying happens when consumers purchase excessive quantities of a product in anticipation of, or in response to, a disaster or perceived crisis. You likely remember the great toilet paper shortage of 2020, when Americans spent $1.4 billion on toilet paper in just four weeks during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2025, it seems we've still yet to learn our lesson, as folks once again raided store shelves in anticipation of Winter Storm Blair. Many folks have reported issues finding bread, meat, eggs, and yes, even toilet paper.

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The 3 Biggest Dangers of Panic Buying

Panic buying is bad for a number of reasons; it can have lasting repercussions that don't do anyone any favors. Below, you'll find some of the biggest issues a strong wave of panic buying can cause.

Supply Chain Disruptions: When a large number of people rush to buy an abundance of the same items, it creates an imbalance between demand and supply. This can lead to shortages of essential goods, making it difficult for others to access what they need. Additionally, it strains the supply chain, causing delays.

Increased Prices: Panic buying can also drive up prices due to the sudden surge in demand for specific items. In the past, this has led to price gouging, where sellers exploit the situation by charging astronomical prices for everyday goods, making them unaffordable for those who need them most.

Psychological Stress: Stress isn't good for anyone. Panic buying can often heighten fear and anxiety at a time when people are already facing enough difficulty from the storm, disaster, or other event taking place. This can lead to hoarding behaviors that leave others feeling vulnerable, further increasing division in society.

How to Avoid Panic Buying

I've lived in Indiana most of my life and have never once panicked ahead of a winter storm. The worry and fear that spread during such crises are dangerous and only make matters worse. The key to avoiding panic buying is simple: be prepared during calmer times. The National Weather Service even offers an Emergency Supplies Kit guide to help you and your family prepare for a disaster. Planning ahead not only helps you navigate turbulent times, but also supports others in need.