Pilot Study Reveals NWS Flood Information Used by Many

SCIPP recently completed the 2nd of two pilot studies that evaluated decision makers sources of flood information, the value of flood-related products and services, and their need for additional information. Flooding is a serious cause of death for U.S. citizens (NWS 2012), and often impacts the SCIPP region.

Flash flooding in Oklahoma City, Okla. in June 2010 (Photo: JC Reiss)
Flash flooding in Oklahoma City, Okla. in June 2010 (Photo: JC Reiss)
River flooding near Memphis, Tenn. in May 2011 (Photo: Barry Keim)
River flooding near Memphis, Tenn. in May 2011 (Photo: Barry Keim)

SCIPP researchers teamed up with three National Weather Service River Forecast Centers to develop a survey to learn how emergency managers and other decision makers use flood-related information. The survey was piloted in October 2011 and again February-April 2012.

Data from the 2nd pilot revealed that the participants were generally satisfied with the information they are able to obtain before, during, and after flood events. Furthermore, majorities agreed or strongly agreed that the floods that impacted them were predicted and forecast with certainty. To find out more, please see the full report, located here and in our Publications section.

The 2nd pilot study was based on a small sample of about 70 people. However, the survey will be distributed to a larger sample in the future. If you are interested in participating in the survey in the future please contact us at scipp@mesonet.org.

Reference: NWS, cited 2012: National flood safety awareness week, http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/tfx/hydro/FAW/fawmain.php?wfo=tfx.

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