A literal lifeline: Forms of media communication in times of disaster

Media is the main bridge between the people and the authorities in times of disaster, be it natural or man-made. According to UNESCO, media institutions, such as broadcast, print, and digital, “perform integral functions throughout the disaster management cycle.”

Making two-way communication possible is a difficult yet pivotal task during uncertain times. Similarly, disseminating real-time information during a disaster is a challenging yet immensely crucial and transformative task. However, traditional media and digital media alike often face the challenge of carrying out their disaster communication responsibilities effectively.

Regardless of the mode, there are different types of content that can be produced to raise public awareness and educate people, such as documentaries, short films, blog posts, and newspaper articles. Meanwhile, different channels are considered more accessible and resilient than others.

It is thus vital to analyse the type of content that becomes more convenient over others to enhance the efficacy and effectiveness of the efforts made by media institutions in the context of disaster communication.

Broadcast media content

Radio broadcast can be introduced as one of the most resilient channels to transmit news in critical times. Its portability, wide reach, and low cost make radio communication more accessible to rural and urban corners alike during crises in which other infrastructure could be partially or completely obstructed. Satellite radio transmission is even more resilient in situations where local towers are damaged.

Transmitting broadcast content such as educational podcasts (serialised content), interviews, discussions, radio documentaries, and call-in shows, providing real-time disaster updates, safety instructions, and early warnings, and government announcements are made easier through this.

Another important and convenient channel of assistance in disaster communication is the television, which is one of the most widely consumed traditional media sources worldwide. Pre-disaster educational programmes, important public service announcements, infographics and visual content including broadcasting live maps and disseminating safety protocols, live reporting from affected areas, interviews of experts (scientists, government officials, and educators), breaking news, and community forums are some of the common and useful types of content that are pervaded by television services.

Digital content 

Moving towards digital media, different social media platforms, namely Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, and Linkedin, as well as blog platforms aid in making real-time information circulation faster. They also boast a high level of accessibility and are an integral part of the daily lives of individuals.

Social media offers a unique platform for the interactions of the public and the authorities due its base being citizen journalism. It helps people connect with one another which results in community connectedness at large, which is a pivotal aspect of disaster management. It is a great channelling method to enhance situational awareness and disaster education.

Social media offers a unique platform for the dissemination of diverse content such as visual reports (images and videos), real-time alerts, community guidance (localised information and assistance), live updates, emergency help desks, and emotional support. It is important in post-disaster donation coordination and other crucial activities.

Another most important aspect of social media is it being a great source of two-way communication, where individuals become both news producers and consumers which helps especially in regional or local disaster management operations such as rescue missions and donation collections.

Although the spreading of misleading and improper information is inevitable on social platforms, the advantages often outweigh the disadvantages. Content such as YouTube shorts, Facebook reels, and WhatsApp status updates and channels are widely used.

It is inarguably clear that the media plays a role in covering every aspect of disaster management, such as mitigating, preparing, responding, and recovering, through various types of content. During such critical times, information becomes almost a primary need of the people.

Without the existence of the media as a social institution, the process of disaster management would be unimaginable. Due to the fact that the role played by the media is on default in modern societies, its gravity and impact often go unnoticed. However, it is crucial to research, analyse, study, and educate people on how to utilise media for disaster management to reap its maximum benefits and pave the way to empowered and sustainable communities.