Media's Role In Shaping Perceptions Of Disaster Tourism: Analysing Viewer Responses To The Wayanad And Ankola Landslides

On July 16, 2024, a landslide in Shirur village, Karnataka, caused eight fatalities and left three missing, with rescue efforts hampered by severe weather. Media coverage, particularly from Kerala, heightened public scrutiny and pressure on rescue operations, leading to a visit by the Chief Minister of Karnataka. On July 30, 2024, another series of landslides in Kerala resulted in over 350 deaths, with media focusing on personal stories of victims to amplify the urgency of aid. This study explores factors influencing viewer engagement, including narrative engagement, physiological responses, and empathy, across different genders, geographic locations, media formats, and channels. Using a survey with 448 participants conducted from June 6 to August 2, 2024, the study reveals significant gender differences, geographic variations, and media effects on engagement and psychological responses, highlighting the role of media in shaping public reaction and response to crises.