Volume 1 · Number 2

This study examines why flood early warning systems may fail to operate effectively during rapid-onset disasters. Drawing on examples from Cameron Highlands in Malaysia, North Kyushu in Japan, and Sri Lanka, the authors organize the major obstacles into three broad categories: knowledge-related, technological, and institutional barriers. The analysis highlights how weaknesses in information, technology, coordination, and implementation can delay warnings and reduce their practical value. The paper offers a structured perspective for improving the reliability and effectiveness of flood early warning systems.

This paper explores how social media can influence earthquake preparedness by shaping the way individuals and institutions access, disseminate, and use risk information. Building on research on earthquake behavior and risk communication, the authors propose a multi-level 'Social Media Fit' perspective that considers both individual and institutional use of social media. The study argues that the effectiveness of social-media communication depends on how well communication practices fit preparedness needs, warning processes, and institutional roles.

This study investigates flood-risk perception among residents of several Belgrade municipalities. A survey of 120 respondents examines relationships between risk perception and demographic, socioeconomic, and psychological factors, including gender, age, education, property ownership, income, fear, and previous experience. The results show meaningful associations between these factors and how citizens perceive flood risk. The findings support better targeted public education, prevention activities, and risk-communication strategies aimed at reducing the consequences of future flood disasters.

This paper examines the roles of schools and local communities in disaster-risk reduction and considers how collaboration between them can strengthen resilience. In the Philippines, where exposure to natural hazards is high, schools are important sources of knowledge and behavior formation while communities provide local identity, experience, and networks. The study highlights the value of linking educational institutions with community stakeholders so that disaster-preparedness knowledge, local capacities, and coordinated action can reinforce proactive rather than reactive disaster-risk-reduction practices.

Using the 2018 Kerala floods as a central case, this paper critically examines disaster governance, legal compliance, decentralized institutions, and community resilience in India. It argues that inadequate preparedness, weak enforcement of environmental and land-use regulations, limited citizen participation, and institutional shortcomings intensified disaster impacts. The visible contribution of local communities, including fishermen in rescue and relief, demonstrates the importance of decentralized disaster management. The paper calls for stronger accountability, legal enforcement, community participation, and more empowered disaster-management institutions.