Household risk perceptions and evacuation intentions in earthquake and tsunami in a Cascadia Subduction Zone. (April 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Buylova, Alexandra; Chen, Chen; Cramer, Lori A.; Wang, Haizhong; Cox, Daniel T.
• Is Part Of: International journal of disaster risk reduction. Volume 44(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-04
• Subjects: Earthquake -- Tsunami -- Risk perception -- Evacuation behavior -- Preparedness -- Survey; Emergency management -- Periodicals; Risk management -- Periodicals; Disaster relief -- Periodicals; Hazard mitigation -- Periodicals; 363.34
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdrr.2019.101442
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2212-4209

Abstract

Abstract: This study examines public risk perceptions and behavioral intentions in the event of a Cascadia Subduction Zone (CSZ) earthquake and local tsunami on the Oregon Coast. A household survey was conducted in Seaside, Oregon, a small coastal community located within the impact radius of the CSZ. This research analyzes how situational variables of hazard proximity, past experience, preparedness, perception of location relative to a tsunami inundation zone, knowledge of tsunamis, and demographic variables, along with psychological constructs of risk perceptions and self-efficacy, influence intended evacuation behaviors. Results show that risk perception and self-efficacy have a positive significant influence on the intended behaviors of immediate evacuation. In addition, physical preparedness, tsunami-relevant knowledge and location perception serve as significant predictors of immediate evacuation intentions. Being female is positively associated with pre-evacuation behavioral intentions, encompassing checking social media, collecting documents, and contacting loved ones. The results contribute to the emerging body of literature examining human decision-making processes in extreme events.