This document discusses planning strategies for companies facing a natural disaster crisis situation. It suggests that companies can and should plan for unpredictable events by having specific but flexible plans. Goals would be important to provide direction and evaluate performance. For a manufacturing company like BMW, goals would need to come from division management. A global airline would require strategic planning from top management. A small flower grower's goals may be more individual level. Flexible plans allow managers to focus on problems while being willing to alter plans as needed. Managers can learn from this crisis the importance of always being prepared for unexpected events through contingency planning.