Perception of Flood Risk and Mitigation: Survey Results from the Eastern Black Sea Basin, Turkey

Abstract

AbstractThis study aimed to investigate perceptions of flood risk and possible mitigation measures among residents of the Eastern Black Sea Basin, Turkey. A six-item questionnaire was administered to 897 people. The questionnaire comprised three sections soliciting information on previous flood experience, awareness and risk perception, and possible mitigation measures. Responses revealed most people had flood experience and believed their residences were at risk. Respondents expected loss of property and/or life during a potential flood event and thought that some measures could be taken to mitigate flood hazards. The most frequently mentioned measures to mitigate flood hazards were stream improvement, afforestation, prevention of settlement in streambeds, and infrastructure improvement. Many respondents believed the state, the municipality, and citizens were responsible for taking these measures. Significant differences were found between open-ended responses and respondent’s age, gender, and educationa...