Interpersonal communication networks in flood disaster management

Flooding is one of the most frequent disasters affecting urban areas in Indonesia, including Medan City. In Medan, flooding is shaped not only by rainfall intensity but also by land-use change, inadequate drainage, and urban management challenges that increase community vulnerability. In this context, communication plays a central role in supporting coordination, information exchange, and decision-making during disaster management. This analysed the interpersonal communication network developed by the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Medan City in flood management. The study employed a qualitative design using in-depth interviews and document-based data to explore communication practices among BPBD actors and local government stakeholders in flood-prone areas. Data were analysed thematically through processes of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings show that BPBD’s interpersonal communication in flood management operates through an institutional communication network involving meteorological agencies, local government units, village authorities, neighbourhood leaders, and affected communities. This network is characterised by four major features: institutional coordination, hierarchical communication across government structures, two-way communication with communities, and technology-supported interpersonal interaction through mobile phones and instant messaging applications. These communication practices strengthen information flow, improve inter-agency coordination, and encourage community participation in disaster response. The study shows that interpersonal communication is not merely a supporting element, but a core mechanism in enhancing the effectiveness of local flood disaster management.

Emergency management · Flood myth · Interpersonal communication · Local government · Disaster Management and Resilience · Flood Risk Assessment and Management · Wetland Management and Conservation