Colours and maps for communicating natural hazards to users with and without colour vision deficiency

Natural hazards are often communicated visually using colours and maps. However, users' ability to read understand these products may be hampered by e.g., colour vision deficiency, potentially rendering the less effective or even counter effective. To study effects, we conducted two web-based surveys analysed how improve visual communication of avalanches, floods, landslides, dangerous weather hazards. In survey 1 (n = 79), tested four traffic light palettes, three map legends, patterns used for communicating danger levels on Norwegian website Varsom.no, accessibility individuals with without deficiency (CVD). 2 960), versions palettes a larger international population. Survey also six Avalanche terrain exposure scale (ATES) maps CVD varying in nationality, avalanche education familiarity ATES. Results suggest that colours, Varsom should improved, best palette Meteoalarm.info – combination symbols help users CVD. This found scheme ski run difficulty Europe was efficient use ATES participants is recommended as worldwide standard Further studies testing users’ understanding clarity level visualization classes 0 Our show hidden potential inclusive natural highlights importance including needs standardisation efforts.