Knowledge, Awareness, and Attitudes toward Tsunamis: A Local Survey in the Southern Coast of Iran

In regions with low tsunami risk probability, mitigation plans are unlikely to resonate with residents. Empirical data regarding people’s knowledge, awareness, and attitudes about tsunamis represent a keystone for better risk management and improved disaster preparedness. This study evaluated these...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Parastoo Salah, Jun Sasaki
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2021-01-01
Series:Sustainability
Subjects:
Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/13/2/449
Description
Summary:In regions with low tsunami risk probability, mitigation plans are unlikely to resonate with residents. Empirical data regarding people’s knowledge, awareness, and attitudes about tsunamis represent a keystone for better risk management and improved disaster preparedness. This study evaluated these factors on the southern coast of Iran, Makran, by conducting a field survey. The results presented in this paper indicate a low level of awareness and willingness to evacuate among residents and a low level of trust in the government in regard to risk management. Moreover, the results show a significant religious attribution affecting respondents’ risk perception and evacuation behavior that, along with the aforementioned factors, increases residents’ vulnerability. Based on our findings, we provide some recommendations to help policymakers understand how to shape mitigation and evacuation plans such that they will become more evidence-based, sensitive, informed, and cost-effective.
ISSN:2071-1050