Attributes influencing the flood risk perception in rural communities

Abstract

Flood risk perception plays a critical role in shaping community responses to disasters, especially in rural areas where exposure and vulnerability are often underestimated. This study investigates how social characteristics influence flood risk perception in Ampuero, a rural municipality in northern Spain, through 27 semi-structured interviews. A sociogeomorphological approach was adopted to connect geomorphic conditions and community structures across three distinct urban sectors: Residential, Commercial, and Industrial. The questionnaire used to conduct the interviews, adapted from prior studies in two Brazilian rural communities, enabled international comparison. The results show that development levels and local context affect all phases of disaster risk management, from preparedness to recovery. Industrial and commercial zones demonstrated higher awareness yet greater exposure, while residential areas exhibited a false sense of security. The findings highlight key challenges in communication, disaster education, and institutional support while proposing strategies to bridge gaps between perception and policy. This study provides practical insights for tailoring disaster risk reduction strategies to the specific conditions of rural communities.