Theses and Dissertations

Advisor

Mercer, Andrew

Committee Member

Sherman-Morris, Kathleen

Committee Member

Saunders, Michelle

Date of Degree

8-12-2026

Original embargo terms

Immediate Worldwide Access

Document Type

Graduate Thesis - Open Access

Major

Geoscience (Professional Meteorology/Climatology)

Degree Name

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Arts and Sciences

Department

Department of Geosciences

Abstract

Heat is the leading cause of weather-related mortality in the United States, yet it remains under-recognized despite rising mortality and intensifying climate trends. This qualitative study explored decision-making processes regarding heat hazards among 15 county-level emergency managers in the Northern Gulf Coast region using Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) as a guiding framework. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis, combining deductive coding of PMT constructs with inductive identification of independent themes. Key findings showed reliance on verbal persuasion and prior experience as primary information sources, threat appraisals moderated by normalization and deprioritization of heat due to other hazards, and coping appraisals constrained by response costs such as staffing and funding. Adaptive responses centered on messaging and partner coordination, while the independent themes highlighted cultural acclimation, community self-reliance, and pragmatic resource repurposing. The study extends PMT to organizational contexts and provides actionable recommendations for enhancing heat resilience.

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