Cosmos: A Journal of Geography

Digital Disaster Communication in Gaya: Twitter’s Role in Navigating Heat Wave Emergencies

With the intensification of climate-induced disasters, particularly heat waves in regions like Gaya, Bihar, there is a growing need to understand the role of digital platforms in disaster communication. This study explores how Twitter functions as a tool for navigating heat wave emergencies by analyzing responses from 188 Twitter users in Gaya. The research investigates user behavior, types of information sought, perceived reliability, and the extent to which Twitter contributes to preparedness. Findings reveal that a significant portion of users actively engage with Twitter during heat waves, primarily for weather alerts, health tips, and government advisories. While many users find the platform reliable and helpful for real-time preparedness, challenges such as misinformation, lack of localized content, and digital accessibility remain key concerns. The study contributes to the discourse on ICT-based disaster communication and suggests practical strategies for improving digital disaster literacy and engagement in climate-vulnerable regions.