Steinkjer Municipality Faces Criticism for Delayed Storm response Communication
On Sunday morning at 11 o’clock, Steinkjer municipality issued a status update on their websites following the severe storm that hit the region on Friday. Mayor Gunnar Thorsen (Ap) acknowledged the delay, stating, “We have to show that we care for everyone. It is indeed too late, but now it is happening.”
The update highlighted the municipality’s efforts to ensure the safety of vulnerable residents. Satellite phones were deployed to maintain communication in areas with no mobile coverage, and all water supply systems were reported to be operational. “The municipalities have done a grate job within the ordinary services for which we are responsible. The home service has visited everyone who has security alarms,and they have recharged peopleS batteries. In addition, they have visited those with whom they have not been in contact,” Thorsen explained.
However, the mayor expressed dissatisfaction with the municipality’s communication strategy. During a crisis meeting at 6 p.m.on Saturday, it was concluded that general information had been adequately handled. Thorsen disagreed, stating, “This should have been discussed politically throughout the evening, and they should have come to a different conclusion – communication was not well enough taken care of.”
Despite follow-ups with the municipal director, no immediate action was taken. “We ended up contacting the municipal director that we had concluded incorrectly at the meeting at 6 p.m. Still nothing happened. I followed up on this this morning to make sure the information got out,” Thorsen added.
The status update was finally published after 11 a.m. on Sunday, both on the municipality’s website and Facebook. Thorsen emphasized that this incident serves as a learning chance for Steinkjer, which can draw lessons from neighboring municipalities like Namsos and Inderøy. “Namsos and Inderøy have been good, but others have not been as good.It’s been a long time since Friday,” he remarked.
While it is too early to evaluate the overall response, Thorsen believes there is potential for improvement beyond the service area.| Key Points | Details |
|————————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Status Update | Issued Sunday at 11 a.m. on website and Facebook. |
| Communication Issues | Delayed and insufficient information dissemination. |
| Vulnerable Residents | Followed up with security alarms and battery recharges. |
| Learning Opportunity | Neighboring municipalities like Namsos and Inderøy set better examples. |
Thorsen’s candid assessment underscores the importance of timely and effective communication during crises, a lesson Steinkjer aims to integrate into future emergency responses.
Lessons from Steinkjer: Improving crisis Interaction in the Wake of Storm Response Delays
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Following a severe storm that struck Steinkjer last week, the municipality’s delayed communication and crisis response have come under scrutiny. Mayor Gunnar Thorsen acknowledged the shortcomings but also highlighted the municipality’s efforts to protect vulnerable residents. In this interview, Senior Editor Sarah Carter of World Today News speaks with Dr. Erik Larsen, a crisis management expert, to unpack what went wrong and how municipalities can improve their emergency communication strategies.
The Delayed Status Update and Its Impact
Sarah Carter: Dr. Larsen, the status update from Steinkjer was issued on Sunday at 11 a.m., nearly two days after the storm hit. What are the immediate consequences of such a delay?
Dr. Erik Larsen: The delay in communication can exacerbate public anxiety and confusion during a crisis. People need timely details to make decisions about their safety. When updates are delayed, trust in the municipality’s ability to manage the situation erodes, and residents may feel neglected.
addressing Communication Gaps
Sarah Carter: Mayor Thorsen admitted that communication was not handled well. What could Steinkjer have done differently?
Dr. Erik Larsen: First, they should have established a clear communication protocol from the outset. Regular updates, even if brief, are essential. They could have used multiple channels—social media, local radio, and SMS alerts—to reach as many people as possible. Partnering with neighboring municipalities like Namsos and Inderøy, which had better responses, could also have provided valuable insights.
Protecting Vulnerable Residents
Sarah Carter: The municipality did make efforts to ensure the safety of vulnerable residents, such as recharging security alarm batteries. How critical is this aspect of crisis management?
Dr. Erik Larsen: It’s absolutely vital. vulnerable populations, such as the elderly or those with disabilities, are frequently enough the most at risk during emergencies. Proactive measures, like checking on these individuals and ensuring their safety devices are functional, can save lives.steinkjer’s efforts here are commendable, but they should be part of a broader, more coordinated response.
Learning from Neighboring Municipalities
Sarah Carter: Thorsen mentioned that Steinkjer can learn from municipalities like Namsos and Inderøy. What specific lessons can they take away?
Dr. Erik Larsen: Namsos and inderøy demonstrated the importance of preparedness and swift action. They had clear communication plans in place and executed them effectively. Steinkjer should review these cases to identify best practices, such as pre-established crisis teams, regular training, and community outreach programs to educate residents about emergency procedures.
Looking Ahead: Building a More Resilient System
Sarah Carter: What steps can Steinkjer take to improve its crisis response in the future?
Dr. Erik Larsen: First, they need to conduct a thorough post-crisis review to identify areas for improvement. Investing in technology, like satellite phones for communication in areas with no mobile coverage, is another key step. Additionally,fostering a culture of accountability and transparency within the municipality will help rebuild public trust. regular drills and simulations can prepare staff for real-life scenarios, ensuring a more coordinated response next time.
