In the wake of the devastating Kahramanmaraş earthquakes that struck Türkiye on February 6, 2023, a new study published in the journal *Natural Hazards and Earth System Sciences* (translated from Turkish as *Natural Hazards and Earth System Sciences*) offers a critical analysis of the government’s disaster response strategies. Led by B. Sarı from the Atatürk Vocational School of Health Services at Ege University in İzmir, the research delves into the complexities of crisis communication, response capacity, and crisis management in the face of one of the most severe tragedies of the century.
The study highlights the swift initial response of the Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency (AFAD), with an official press statement released just 13 minutes after the earthquake and a level four disaster declaration made within 86 minutes. This rapid response underscores the government’s awareness of the situation’s severity. However, the research also reveals significant challenges in coordinating over 270,000 volunteers, managing search and rescue operations, and handling information on social media.
“Despite extensive rescue and response capabilities, there are still challenges with respect to preventing loss of life,” notes Sarı. The study emphasizes the need for a greater focus on disaster prevention and mitigation efforts, particularly in aligning design and construction practices with seismic provisions.
The commercial impacts of such disasters on the energy sector are profound. Infrastructure damage can lead to prolonged disruptions in energy supply, affecting both residential and industrial consumers. The study’s findings underscore the importance of robust disaster management strategies to minimize these impacts and ensure business continuity.
Moreover, the role of social media in information management and coordination emerged as a pivotal factor. Effective use of social media can enhance crisis communication, enabling faster and more accurate dissemination of information, which is crucial for coordinating relief efforts and ensuring public safety.
This research serves as a call to action for governments and industries worldwide to prioritize disaster prevention and mitigation. By learning from the experiences of Türkiye, other regions can better prepare for and respond to seismic events, ultimately safeguarding lives and minimizing economic losses.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, integrating these lessons into disaster management strategies will be essential. The study’s insights can guide the development of more resilient infrastructure and more effective crisis response plans, ensuring that the energy sector remains robust in the face of natural disasters.