Considerations for Communication of Climate Health Risk Related to Flooding and Other Hazards in Cities

Background: Effective risk communication is critical to help vulnerable groups prepare for increasing health threats from climate change, such as extreme heat and flooding. Message content, delivery mechanisms, and messenger trust all play a role in effective communication and are particularly important during health emergencies. Cities that have diverse populations in terms of culture and health-related risk factors face additional challenges targeting communication about various hazards to vulnerable communities in a way that is timely, effective, and culturally competent. Methods: This review assesses current knowledge and gaps relating to communication of health risks, particularly surrounding life-threatening flooding events, to diverse urban populations facing climate-related hazards. It uses New York City (NYC) as a case study in terms of emergency-related communication successes and failures. Results: Diverse populations necessitate targeted communication strategies and emergency planning that consider language, culture, communication methods, and access needs. Vulnerability, messenger trust, and message effectiveness may vary, and timing is an important consideration. Conclusion: The effectiveness of risk messages and decisions depends on cultural considerations, location, resource access, and timing. Although NYC’s renter majority, public transit dependence, and diversity distinguish it from other cities, these considerations can be applied widely in strategic communication to reduce adverse health outcomes.