9810681 Bourque This study builds on the extant literature by examining how predictions of floods from the El Nino Southern Oscillations affect Los Angeles County residents. The study has four objectives. The first objective of the study is to replicate cross-sectional data analyses across two different types of disasters in order to test whether relationships observed in previous earthquake studies can be applied to the El Nino event. The second objective is to provide researchers with longitudinal data about a sample of residents of Los Angeles County across two different disasters in order to identify whether previously observed associations can be expanded into casual relationships. The third objective is to identify the effects of the El Nino event on the Los Angeles community, including its physical, emotional and economic impacts. Finally, the fourth objective is to provide information about the role of media and public officials in preparedness activities. A survey of Los Angeles County residents will be conducted employing computer assisted telephone interviewing. ***
