It depends on the region. WhatsApp is popular in America but not so much in India or south east Asia. I reckon China and Russia may have their own, but Telegram is active in the later.
in Canada, vital text messages are sent on automatic to all cell phones by civil defence.
In the Sub Saharan African context WhatsApp is being used widely . It is however restricted at times by network availability resulting from power cuts and vandalism of infrastructure in conflict zones.@
Social media platforms have become increasingly important in the dissemination of information and communication during natural disasters. The choice of which social media platform is most used can vary by region and the specific disaster event, but several platforms are commonly used in such situations:
Twitter: Twitter is often one of the most widely used social media platforms during natural disasters. It allows for quick dissemination of short, real-time updates and information, including official alerts, news updates, and messages from emergency management agencies.
Facebook: Facebook is another widely used platform for disaster-related communication. It offers a broader range of content, including longer posts, photos, videos, and live streaming, making it suitable for sharing detailed information, stories, and updates.
WhatsApp: WhatsApp is popular for one-on-one or group messaging and is often used for person-to-person communication during disasters. Many official organizations and relief agencies also set up WhatsApp groups to provide updates and receive information from affected individuals.
Instagram: Instagram, known for its visual content, is used to share photos and videos that provide a visual representation of the disaster's impact. It's particularly popular for documenting and sharing experiences during disasters.
Snapchat: Snapchat's "Snap Map" feature allows users to share their location and snaps with their friends, which can be useful for checking on the safety and well-being of individuals during disasters.
YouTube: YouTube is a valuable platform for sharing longer videos, including news broadcasts, live streams, and tutorials on disaster preparedness and safety.
Nextdoor: Nextdoor is a neighborhood-focused social network that becomes particularly useful for local communication during disasters. Neighbors can share information, resources, and updates specific to their community.
Reddit: Reddit has various subreddits (community forums) dedicated to disaster-related discussions and updates. It's a platform where users can share information, ask questions, and seek help.
TikTok: TikTok is increasingly used for quick and creative videos related to disasters, often providing information in an engaging and easily digestible format.
Telegram: Telegram offers features similar to WhatsApp, including group chats and broadcasts, making it a useful platform for disaster-related communication.
The choice of the most-used platform can also depend on the preferences of the affected population and the specific communication strategies of local authorities and relief agencies. In many cases, a combination of these platforms is used to reach a wider audience and provide diverse types of information during natural disasters. It's essential for emergency management agencies and organizations to be active on multiple social media platforms to effectively communicate with the public during disasters.