Crisis Communication in Dark Times: The 2011 Mouse River Flood in Minot, North Dakota

Authors

  • Christopher L. Atkinson School of Public Administration Florida Atlantic University

Keywords:

public communication, crisis management, Minot, North Dakota, local government, emergency response

Abstract

Crisis communication is an essential aspect of disaster and crisis management for governments; this is particularly true for local governments, which are first into an event response and last out, and on the front lines of response and recovery. In this article, crisis communication is reviewed generally and then in the context of the 2011 Souris (Mouse) River flood in Minot, North Dakota. Using analysis of primary interview data, I deliberate on the potential that exists for public communication to enhance the responsiveness of government in addressing the public’s needs under threat of hazard or disaster. Results and discussion of the analysis are provided. I find that the city learned from the challenges of the flood in a way that suggests improved responses for future events. The case represents an expression of good governance in what have been dark times for the public sector. 

Author Biography

Christopher L. Atkinson, School of Public Administration Florida Atlantic University

Christopher L. Atkinson has taught courses in the School of Public Administration at Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida. He received his PhD from Florida Atlantic University. His research interests include public management and policy studies, neo-institutionalism, regulation, and emergency management.

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Published

2014-05-15

Issue

Vol. 8 (2014)

Section

Articles

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