engleski

Importance of Scientifically Based Facts in Crisis Communication: Evidence from Earthquakes in Zagreb and Petrinja

Earthquakes are natural phenomena that can strongly affect the human population, infrastructure, and the environment. Croatia is part of a tectonically and seismically active area so its habitants and relevant institutions should be aware of possible hazardous events, which can be devastating. Therefore, crisis communication is extremely important, and in the event of natural disasters such as earthquakes, it must be clear, timely and concise. Scientific institutions dealing with earthquakes should also be involved in crisis communication. The information on two strong earthquakes in 2020 that shocked the area of Zagreb and Petrinja and the wide surrounding area, have shown how relevant institutions can deal with information on earthquakes and their consequences and share them publicly. This paper adopts a mixedmethods research design, combining both qualitative, and quantitative data on the Zagreb and Petrinja earthquakes from various sources of scientific and professional institutions in the field of geology, geophysics, seismology and civil engineering in Croatia. Empirical data suggest that interactive communication that strives to address local contextual concerns, explain actions, and provide honest, timely, accurate and reliable information is most effective. In the future, institutions have to find a way to react or share their information to help in the crisis.

earthquakes, social media, content analysis, crisis communication

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