Authors: Ruth Quainoo, Scott C. Merrill, Rodrigo Soares, Jessica Balerna, Masood Ali Khan, Trisha Shrum – University of Vermont; Christopher Koliba – University of Kansas
Title: Gaps in Public and Emergency Manager Flood Communications and Perceptions
Presentation Type: Poster
Abstract: Despite substantial investments in early warning systems, floods continue to result in the loss of lives, livelihoods, and property. These impacts are often worsened by communication breakdowns. Effectively addressing this issue requires a clear understanding of the communication gaps between emergency managers and the public—the primary users of flood forecast information. This study examined how well the public understands flood-related terminology, the communication methods used, and the sources of flood information. Drawing on data from a nationally representative survey of 918 U.S. residents and a survey of 64 emergency managers, the study highlights key discrepancies between emergency managers’ assumptions and the public’s actual understanding of flood terminology, preferred communication channels, and trusted sources of information. These findings offer critical insights for emergency managers, the National Weather Service (NWS), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and other government agencies working to improve flood risk communication and enhance public safety.