Mapping Social Media Response to Crisis Events: A Spatial Deviation Analysis of Public Reaction on X and Tornado Paths in Oklahoma

Abstract

Tornadoes pose a recurring threat in Oklahoma, United States, underscoring the need for timely information during emergencies. This study examines how geotagged tweets on X reflect actual tornado impacts in 2022. By analyzing spatial deviations between tweet locations and verified tornado paths using geoprocessing techniques and Moran’s I, the study evaluates the spatial reliability of social media data for situational awareness and disaster response. The study introduces an interactive framework through which tornado intensity can be adjusted to dynamically refine the analysis. The framework visualizes social media disaster communication patterns and enables comparison of spatial patterns across tornado intensities (EF0–EF4). The results indicate that geotagged tweets cluster strongly near verified tornado paths for low- to moderate-intensity events, while higher-intensity tornadoes exhibit greater spatial deviation and reduced real-time reporting. The study presents an interactive geospatial framework that enhances understanding of public awareness and engagement, supporting the use of social media for real-time hazard monitoring and community response mapping.