In November 2016 when a significant earthquake triggered a tsunami warning in Japan, citizens were quick to take to social media to share information of what was happening around them. The following are the 9 key ways in which Emergency Management teams can learn from Japan's online events.
1. Stay alert to possible ‘trolling’ or deliberate misinformation:
2. Monitor facts & figures that are being broadcast by citizens. Notice ‘trending’ information as it arises. Are Retweets accurate?
3. Citizen-sourced information on damaged or at risk areas:
4. Monitor the Public Service Announcements are being communicated:
Does the information match up or are there conflicting announcements?
5. Descriptions of damage and ongoing effects of the disaster:
6. Non-urgent questions from the public about the Tsunami:
7. Monitor response in the surrounding areas to the disaster zone and stay aware of requests for help:
8. Monitor what news coverage is being observed – for both information and misinformation:
9. Monitor citizens marking themselves as safe and adding to the situational awareness picture (safe areas etc.):
The online play-by-play of Japan's tsunami warning shows just how critical it is for Emergency Management teams to be monitoring social media when a natural disaster hits - it is no longer just a 'nice-to-have'.
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