Long-term communication of volcanic risk for effective decision-making

Lead Investigator:
Julia Becker, Joint Centre for Disaster Research, Massey University

Funded project # 3052

Abstract 

Communication of information about volcanic hazards and risk varies, depending on the status of the volcano (e.g. quiescence, unrest, eruption, post-eruption, recovery), and the population exposed. It is made challenging by factors such as uncertainty about the likelihood, timing, and location of an eruption, the variation of impacts across space and time, and personal circumstances. Communication of volcano information is necessary to help inform decision-making for volcanoes. While previous studies have investigated information and communication for specific hazards, eruptive events, locations, or formats, gaps exist in knowing what is required at each of the different stages of activity (i.e. from quiescence to recovery). Our research thus investigated volcano communication over such stages to understand decision-making needs (e.g. for preparedness, planning, response, recovery), and the information required. We focused on information provided by science agencies and how it might be used by other agencies, organisations, and the public of Aotearoa New Zealand.

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