I don't think it's fear. I think it's preparation. When people see things ahead, they prepare.

In South Africa, in March 2020, we went into lockdown. Nobody was allowed to leave their homes except for food and medical. All shops were closed down. Initially it was for 3 weeks, but then it was extended for 2 weeks.

In the shops, themselves, there were long queues as only a limited number were allowed in. Thankfully, anyone over 60 could skp the queues.