The influence of impact-based severe weather warnings on risk perceptions and intended protective actions

Our results indicate that impact-based warnings may be more effective than phenomenon-based warnings in influencing the recipient's perception of the hazardous event (their sense of threat, concern, and understanding of the potential impacts), but this does not translate to a higher level of action. Characteristics of gender, age, and location of residence were also influences on risk perceptions and intended actions. However, experience with having been affected by strong winds in the past was not a strong influence on intending to respond. Our findings support the inclusion of information about hazards, impacts, and 'what to do' information in a warning message.