I've come to realize that many people know they need to prep. The issue becomes one of timing.
I keep going back to living down on the Gulf Coast. When there is a hurricane turning in the Gulf of Mexico, many watch it until the "experts" agree on a path. Once that path is determined, those that live in the path rush to the grocery stores to stock-up. Why?
They know that a hurricane or any other natural disaster could cause disruptions. It's usually a few days to a week. We saw the same thing with Covid. Once things got real, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo canceled, people rushed to the stores and emptied them out. Then the shortages started...toilet paper, hand sanitizer, wipes, you know....
People who prep on a regular basis don't wait for the disaster. They don't want to compete with everyone else at the grocery stores. They rather have their supplies ahead of time.
Many know preparedness or readiness is important. It's an issue of timing and priorities though.