Most federally declared disasters are from atmospheric hazards. These could be from floods, tropical cyclones, tornadoes, or winter storms. Some of these hazards are events with relatively short warning times such as tornadoes or have sufficient warnings from tropical cyclones. This research examined communication of weather information and personal preparedness following the Florida landfall from Tropical Storm Debby in 2012. Another case study examined emergency management issues such as preparedness and response after the 2011 tornado in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The concentration was on emergency management agencies at the County, University, State, and Federal levels. A sample of elderly residents of Pinellas and Pasco Counties in Florida completed a self-administered survey to examine various means of receiving weather information along with hurricane preparedness actions. In-depth interviews were conducted with representatives of various agencies on different scales in regard to preparedness and response following the Tuscaloosa tornado. The elderly used television as the primary means of receiving weather information, thus stressing the importance of utilizing both traditional and newer forms of communications to reach all citizens. One of the major issues on all levels following the Tuscaloosa tornado is related to communications such as resource allocations and response actions.
Part of the book: Atmospheric Hazards