Losing the Message: How can we better communicate Geohazards and Risk?

 The approach to preparing and communicating hazard and risk information varies greatly both within and across hazard types and application types.    Often maps are tailored to specific end use applications, yet users may not understand how these products have been derived, how to interpret the results, the underlying assumptions and uncertainties, or their appropriate and inappropriate uses. 

This gap between technical production and practical interpretation can lead to misuse, overconfidence, or disengagement, ultimately undermining risk-informed decision-making. This panel examines common challenges in hazard and risk communication across sectors and hazards, drawing on real-world examples from policy, planning, and emergency management contexts. It highlights practical principles for designing and communicating hazard information that is transparent, fit-for-purpose, and usable by diverse audiences, with a focus on supporting better decisions under uncertainty.

Panelists

• Rick Guthrie, Stantec

• Tamsin Lyle, Ebbwater Consultants

• Alan Jones, Dynamic Avalanche Consulting

• Moderator: Sahar Safaie, Arcadis Canada