Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2026

Use of Principal Components for Scaling Up Topographic Models to Map Soil Redistribution and Soil Organic Carbon
Published on: October 16, 2018
Mental models of flash floods and landslides
1Technische Universität München, Forest and Environmental Policy, Am Hochanger 13, 85354 Freising, Germany. wagner@forst.tu-muenchen.de
Abstract:
Perceptions of flash floods and landslides were analyzed in four communities of the Bavarian Alps using the mental model approach. Thirty-eight qualitative interviews, two telephone surveys with 600 respondents, and two onsite interviews (74/95 respondents) were conducted. Mental models concerning flash floods are much better developed than those for landslides because the key physical processes for flash floods are easier for the general public to recognize and understand. Mental models are influenced by the local conditions. People who have a better knowledge about the hazards are those who use many different sources to inform themselves, express fear about natural hazards, or have previous experience with hazards. Conclusions for how to improve information for the general public are discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Design Example: Analyzing Capacity Contours for Flood Risk Assessment
Typical Model Studies
Design Example: Creating a Hydraulic Model of a Dam Spillway
Applications of GIS: Disaster Management and Emergency Response
Modeling and Similitude
Schemas

