The state of problems, needs and expectations of the community for Communication in the flood disaster: A comparative study of urban and rural communities in Nan Province

Abstract

This research has applied qualitative method by using a sample count and display of partial results in a frequency table format in order for analysis and reference with words that reflect the experiences and tones of feeling. The research has the main objectives as follows: 1) To study the community’s problems and obstacles regarding communication in the pre-incident / during / post-incident of the flood disaster. 2) To study the community’s needs and expectations regarding communication in the pre-incident / during / post-incident of the flood disaster. The main focus is on the comparative study between urban and rural communities. The results have indicated that inequality in technology results in urban communities’ a clear communication advantage in flood disaster situations in terms of speed and means of communication. In the aspect of the expectations of message content in communication, it has shown that in the pre-incident of the disaster and during the disaster, both groups of community have the similar needs and expectations on the message content regarding the tides or water levels and places provided for picking up the donated items (food, drinking water, basic medicine) respectively.  However, despite the expectation after the disaster as water receding to normal level has specified the most similar expectations for assistance from government but with the different circumstances of flood disasters, it makes the certain different needs. Urban communities affected by flooding disasters require information to help repair homes and compensation for the victims of damage. While communities in rural areas affected by flash floods require information on mess clean-up in the communities, removal of falling tree remains because they want to participate in the particular activities in order to resume the normal life as soon as possible.