Lessons from Flood Disaster Management of Khuzestan Province, Iran, Based on the Experiences of Policymakers: A Qualitative Study

Background: Floods are among the most destructive crises in various countries, including Iran, and are considered a national issue. To reduce flood damages, the flood management process must be regularly reviewed and its problems be identified. Objectives: Therefore, the present study aimed to focus on flood management in April 2019 in Khuzestan province, Iran, to investigate the flood disaster management in Iran based on the experiences of policymakers, identify problems, improve the process of flood disaster management, and reduce damage in the future. Methods: This study was designed based on qualitative content analysis. Data was collected using one-on-one, semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions. According to the targeted sampling method, six policymakers related to the Khuzestan flood disaster management in April 2019 were selected as interviewees. Interviews continued until data saturation. Results: After data analysis, three main themes were identified, namely 1) actions before the flood disaster, such as provision of infrastructure and public awareness, 2) actions during the flood disaster, such as flood disaster level assessment and coordination of actions, and 3) actions after the flood disaster, such as damage assessment. It should be mentioned that each theme included sub-themes and categories. Conclusion: Increased effectiveness of disaster management requires integration and centralization of disaster management and coordination between organizations involved in the disaster at all stages of disaster management, including before, during, and after the disaster. It is also necessary to pay attention to research and successful models and implement preparedness programs along with disaster drills to prevent disaster damage. Engagement of the participation of people should be considered as well.