Social Media and Natural Disasters: Lessons from Kermanshah Earthquake(s) in 2017: Case Report

Document Type : Articles

Authors

1 Department of Adult and geriatric Nursing, Naghadeh School of Medical Sciences, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.

2 Department of Health in Disasters and Emergencies, Health Human Resources Research Center, School of Management and Medical. Informatics, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran

3 Ph.D. of Health in Disasters and Emergencies, Department of Disaster Public Health, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

10.30476/jhmi.2025.104933.1255

Abstract

Introduction: Social media has emerged as a transformative tool in disaster management, addressing challenges such as communication gaps, coordination inefficiencies, and delays in information dissemination. The Kermanshah earthquake in Iran serves as a case study, highlighting the critical role of platforms like Telegram and Instagram in disaster response and recovery.
Methods: This case report examines the role of social media during the Kermanshah earthquake by analyzing data from social media activity, official reports, and news coverage. The analysis focuses on how social media facilitated information exchange, resource mobilization, and community engagement during the post-disaster period.
Results: Social media enabled victims to communicate their safety and location to relatives in real time, mainly through Telegram. It played a key role in organizing volunteers and healthcare personnel and supporting resource distribution. However, the large volume of unfiltered information posed challenges for relief organizations, requiring prioritization and verification. Additionally, the lack of coordinated communication between crisis managers and mass media led to the spread of inaccurate information. Limited internet connectivity in some areas further hindered the effective use of these platforms.
Conclusion: The Kermanshah earthquake demonstrated the dual role of social media in disaster management, acting both as a facilitator and a source of challenges. While it significantly enhanced communication and mobilization efforts, better strategies are needed for filtering information, ensuring authenticity, and integrating social media with official disaster response systems.

Keywords

Main Subjects

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Health Management & Information Science
Volume 11, Issue 4
October 2024
Pages 179-184

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