Researcher(s):
Ted Hamilton
ENVS course(s): 400 Initiated: September 2011 Completed: May 2012 Go to project site
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Subduction zones produce high-magnitude earthquakes and significant volcanic eruptions worldwide, with varying event frequencies. South-central Chile is one of the most seismically and volcanically active subduction regions in the world, generating one major earthquake and four major eruptions in the past six years. This study examines perceptions of geologic hazard (geohazard) risk in south-central Chile, and explores the extent to which perceptions of risk align with actual risk. It includes a cross-sectional statistical analysis of 136 survey respondents’ perceptions of geohazard risk, and a spatial Geographic Information System (GIS)-supported analysis of how perceived risk aligns with actual risk from those hazards. The findings of this study show that high perception of risk can cause high disaster preparedness. The implications of this study are far-reaching, with explorations of the ramifications of geohazard risk perception and the Pacific Northwest in the event of the potential Cascadia “megaquake”. With a better understanding of what causes perceived risk to be aligned with actual risk, we can more effectively evaluate methods of hazard education, creating risk awareness, and making communities more resilient to geohazard disasters. Disaster resilience, not limited to geohazard-triggered events, is a crucial component to creating more generally resilient populations.