Disaster warning messages: challenges and opportunities based on Brazil's experience

This research analyzes the effectiveness of SMS disaster warning messages sent by civil defense agencies across Brazil from 2018 to 2023. Using the Warning Response Model, it evaluates whether alerts include key elements like hazard type, location, guidance, timing, and source. The research seeks to understand how well these messages support public protective actions and where gaps exist, particularly in regions frequently affected by natural and technological hazards. It also explores how message construction, content clarity, and communication channels influence risk perception and emergency response.

The study found that only 1.83% of Brazil’s disaster alerts met the criteria for complete messages. While nearly all messages included a source and named the hazard, they often lacked detailed impact descriptions, specific locations, protective guidance, and timeframes. Messages about floods and meteorological events scored higher than those for technological hazards. Regional disparities were significant, with states like Santa Catarina performing better than others like Goiás. The study recommends multichannel alerts, better training for civil defense agents, and inclusive, detailed communication to improve effectiveness.