Authors: Masood Ali Khan, Asim Zia, Scott Merrill, Trisha Shrum, Rodrigo Soares, Ruth Quainoo, Molly Myers – The University of Vermont; and Christopher Koliba – The University of Kansas
Title: Quantifying and Mapping Biases in Flood Risk Perceptions: Findings from a US National Survey
Presentation Type: Lightning Talk and Poster
Abstract: Flood risk perception informs adaptive behavior, impacts disaster response strategies, and influences community resilience. Disparities between subjective and objective perceptions highlight areas for targeted interventions to improve preparedness and reduce vulnerability. Accurate perception is pivotal for effective risk communication and policymaking and is crucial for minimizing flood-related impacts. This paper delves into the contrasting perspectives of subjective and objective flood risks within the United States, aiming to illuminate the nuances and biases inherent in flood risk perception. Objective flood risk is quantified using comprehensive maps such as FEMA’s National Flood Hazard Layer. Conversely, subjective flood risk is derived from individual perceptions derived from a nationwide survey that captured data from approximately 923 households.
We sought to understand differences between objective and subjective risk along with other factors that could explain these differences such as income, education level, proximity to water bodies, demographics, previous flooding experience, and levels of trust and worry.
Overall, this paper seeks to bridge significant knowledge gaps, particularly in understanding the drivers of bias in subjective versus objective flood risk perceptions. This comprehensive analysis, contributes valuable insights into the nuances of misalignment between subjective and objective risk and its spatial distribution patterns across the US, offering crucial implications for policymakers and for developing crisis and risk communication strategies.