International Journal of Emergency Management (4 papers in press)

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  Connection between language emergency service strategy and audience psychology in public emergencies based on artificial intelligence ( Free Full-text Access )

  by Xiaosi Song 
  Abstract: This paper examines language emergency service strategies and their relationship with audience psychology in public emergencies, using an AI-assisted analytical framework. Focusing on the full life cycle of public emergencies, stage-specific public opinion guidance strategies are proposed for the latency, outbreak, pre-subsidence, and impact periods. A population-level psychological survey conducted in Shaoyang, Hunan Province, reveals that public emergencies affect residents physically (67.6%) and psychologically (86.4%), with psychological impact significantly exceeding physical impact. Government-led public opinion guidance, integrated with new media platforms, has been shown to moderate public attitudes and effectively suppress the spread of rumors. The findings also highlight a substantial nationwide shortage of professional psychological counseling resources in post-emergency settings.
  Keywords: language emergency service strategy; audience psychology; public emergencies; artificial intelligence; sudden public events; public opinion guidance strategies; online public opinion.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJEM.2026.10080116
   
  
• Flood hazard zonation and location of emergency shelters: a case study in South India  
  by Reshma Antony, K.U. Abdu Rahiman, Subha Vishnudas 
  Abstract: Natural disasters like floods cannot be prevented. Major floods in India occur during the southwest monsoon season, when most rainfall occurs. Since the year 2018, flooding has become a frequent occurrence in the Chalakudy River Basin (CRB) in Kerala, India. This study aims to map the flood hazard zones in the basin and identify potential emergency shelters in flood-prone areas. For hazard zonation, an integrated strategy utilising the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and geographic information systems (GIS) is used. Seven major flood causative factors were analysed to demarcate flood hazard zones. The analysis shows that mostly the west and southwest portions are very high and high-hazard zones. Based on the maximum inmates accommodated and infrastructural facilities, the emergency shelter locations were mapped for 12 flood-prone local bodies in CRB. The findings of this study assist disaster management authorities and planning committees in early planning for disaster mitigation activities.
  Keywords: multi-criteria analysis; GIS; flood hazard index; analytical hierarchy process; Chalakudy river basin; disaster mitigation; disaster management; evacuation shelters; response; weighted overlay analysis.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJEM.2025.10078248
   
  
• Exploring the communicative role of social media in disasters: a case study of Deaf people during the 2023 Turkey earthquake  
  by Carolina Tannenbaum-Baruchi, Noa Lavie, Carmit Rapaport 
  Abstract: The objective of this study is to examine the unique challenges encountered by Deaf people during earthquakes, and to evaluate potential interventions to resolve them. We present a case study on the communication patterns of Deaf individuals using social media during disasters, focusing on their interactions with their local community, the Deaf community, and rescue teams. We analyzed videos in sign language from online sources that describe the experiences of Deaf people during the 2023 earthquake in Turkey and looked at the critical phase of receiving and sharing information during the search and rescue process. Social media played a critical role in sharing information, communicating with rescue teams, and issuing warnings and alerts. Further, we observed how self-organization through adaptive behavior led to saving lives and social support for the victims. Based on insights from these experiences, we propose solutions for emergency managers and first responders during earthquake rescue operations.
  Keywords: accessible communication; Deaf people; earthquake; emergency management; social media.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJEM.2026.10078646
   
  
• A holistic approach to disaster management: embedding the TN framework: the case of Sri Lankas protracted crisis  
  by Christina Plesner Volkdal 
  Abstract: This study examines the integration of the humanitariandevelopmentpeacebuilding (Triple Nexus, TN) framework within disaster management in conflict-affected settings. Using a multi-method approach combining literature review, document analysis, ethnographic insights from long-term practitioner experience, and a case study of Sri Lanka, the research develops a model for applying TN dimensions across the disaster cycle. The findings demonstrate that integrated TN approaches strengthen coherence across prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery, contributing to resilience, sustainability, and peace outcomes. The Sri Lanka case provides empirical insights into operational challenges and opportunities in protracted crisis contexts. The study advances understanding of how TN integration can address intersecting risks related to conflict, governance fragility, economic instability, and climate-related disasters. It contributes both theoretically and practically by proposing a more holistic and adaptive approach to disaster management, supporting a shift toward integrated and context-sensitive crisis response strategies.
  Keywords: disaster management; DMC; disaster management cycle; TN; interdisciplinary; holistic.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJEM.2026.10079943