Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.37023/ee.11.1-2.11
ADVANCING EARTHQUAKE PREPAREDNESS IN CROATIA: A SURVEY ON PUBLIC PERCEPTION OF EARTHQUAKE EARLY WARNING SYSTEMS AND THEIR POTENTIAL BENEFITS
Domagoj Škara
; University of Applied Sciences Velika Gorica, Velika Gorica, Croatia
Ljiljana Ivanković
; University of Applied Sciences Velika Gorica, Velika Gorica, Croatia
Tena Dubček
; ETH Zurich & Swiss epilepsy center, Clinic Lengg , Zurich, Switzerland
Dajana Jelčić Dubček
orcid.org/0000-0002-2648-319X
; University of Applied Sciences Velika Gorica, Velika Gorica, Croatia
*
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Earthquake Early Warning (EEW) systems represent a vital advancement in mitigating seismic risks in densely
populated areas. By continuously monitoring seismic activity in real time, they send alerts to at-risk populations shortly before strong shaking reaches them, allowing for at least basic personal and automated protective measures. This study explores public perception of EEW systems and their potential implementation in Croatia through a survey. Due to the proximity of seismogenic faults to urban areas and financial constraints, Croatia currently lacks a functional EEW system. Nonetheless, the survey results indicate that most respondents, even when informed about the limitations of EEW systems, believe that early warnings would enhance their sense of safety, with 85% advocating for investments in EEW systems and related infrastructure. Additionally, 89% participants support earthquake-related education starting from school age. Even with extremely short warning times or providing post-earthquake information only, an EEW system, combined with trained responses to earthquakes, could reduce confusion and panic during and after an earthquake, thereby improving the overall seismic resilience.
Keywords
earthquake Early Warning Systems; earthquake hazard and risk; public perception of seismic preparedness; earthquake emergency response
Hrčak ID:
329214
URI
Publication date:
31.3.2025.
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