Italians and Flood Risk: Between Awareness and Emergency Unpreparedness

The paper analyzes Italian citizens’ perceptions, knowledge, and behaviors regarding flood risk, based on data from the sample survey conducted within the project Risk Communication and Engagement for Societal Resilience (SCARER). In a context marked by an increase in extreme weather events, the study highlights a high level of risk awareness but a limited capacity for action. More than half of the population (54%) perceive themselves as exposed to floods, yet only 43% report knowing how to protect their homes. Territorial and socio-political differences are significant: North-Eastern regions show a higher perception of vulnerability, while in the South concern about drought prevails; center-left voters attribute the causes of floods to climate change, while center-right voters point to poor land maintenance. Direct or indirect experience of flood events (44.5% of citizens) increases risk perception but does not lead to more preventive behaviors. Instead, interest is growing in private insurance solutions and in receiving clear information about emergency plans. The survey thus confirms the existence of a “preparedness gap”: awareness of risk does not translate into operational readiness. Strengthening risk communication and institutional trust emerges as a key condition for promoting widespread resilience.