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Prior studies have illustrated that vulnerability to disasters is a multi-dimensional issue that is shaped by physical, social, cultural, economic, and political factors that determine an individual or community’s ability to prepare for, respond to, and adapt to hazards. Latinx populations, in particular, encounter various communication-related barriers that increase vulnerability to harm during tornado hazards. Working in collaboration with community Latinx leaders and National Weather Services offices in the Southeast, this project provides insights into the factors that place Latinx populations at risk for harm during tornado hazards and identifies community-based practices that can enhance weather warning communication and protective responses for Latinx communities.
Methods
This study examined qualitative responses from 37 follow-up interviews with Latinx participants who completed a quantitative survey in May of 2023 (N = 820). We conducted in-depth, follow-up interviews with participants (N = 37) via Zoom video conferencing to gain contextual insights into how vulnerabilities and resources impact receiving tornado warning information and being able to take protective actions in tornado-hazard events. In-depth interviews used an open-ended interview guide; 28 interviews were conducted in English, and 9 interviews were conducted in Spanish. Interview participants received a $25 gift card incentive for their time. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed, and data analysis included descriptive coding, interpretive coding, and thematic analysis techniques.
Results
Our results indicated a variety of barriers and resources perceived by Latinx participants for understanding tornado warnings, receiving warning information, and being able to take protective actions. Four main themes were found, including (1) tornado warning communication sources and preferences, (2) knowledge of tornadoes and level of preparedness, (3) barriers to receiving warning information and taking shelter, and (4) suggested improvements for more inclusive hazard warning communication with Latinx communities. Participants indicated a lack of understanding and knowledge of tornadoes and the appropriate actions to take during watches or warnings – especially for participants who prefer receiving weather information in Spanish. Non-English speakers cited the lack of warning communication in Spanish as a significant barrier and noted few local Spanish-language channels providing accurate and real-time weather updates. Suggested improvements included increasing the number and accuracy of Spanish language warnings, hiring more Spanish-speaking forecasters, and conducting more community outreach within Spanish-speaking communities. Participants also indicated the need for more Spanish resources and education related to tornado preparedness for the public.
Conclusion
Historically, the approach to communicating hazard risk has been one-way or top-down, with technical experts sending messages to the public, with the goal of the public taking the expert’s recommendations and changing their behavior and actions. Our study identified various barriers and resources perceived by Latinx participants for understanding tornado warnings, receiving warning information, and being able to take protective actions. These findings support the need for national weather forecasting offices to partner with community organizations and Latinx leaders to incorporate culturally and linguistically appropriate risk communication strategies within Latinx populations to build equitable weather warning systems in the face of changing climate.