Impact of social media in dissemination of information during a disaster-a case study on Kerala floods 2018

Abstract

Over the last two decades, social media has been evolved into a powerful tool for communication. Recent Kerala floods could prove the potential of social media as a significant and accessible tool to get information across quickly to reach out to a large group of people. This research intends to study the far reaching impact of social media in dissemination of information during a disaster. It investigates the use of social media platforms by different stakeholders involved in emergency response activities during 2018 Kerala floods. According to the results social media is helpful in organizing and facilitating the rescue and relief actions. With its immediate and amplified reach, social media make sure that vital information reaches to right people at the right time. The strategic use of social media can effectively drive disaster management efforts.