Resource capability for local government in managing disaster

Purpose: The paper aims to flesh out the capability requirements of local government institutions in pre-, during, and post-disaster activities which can act as a useful guide for researchers, bureaucrats, and independent agencies in managing natural disasters. Design/methodology/approach: The role of local government and the capability requirement for this institution have been major concerns in disaster discourse, since local government plays the most active role during disasters. It is the local government's responsibility to protect the community from vulnerability and to reduce disaster impacts. This paper critically summarizes the views of researchers, academicians, and government bodies. The sources of information are articles, books, web sites, and government reports. Findings: In the critical stage of disaster management, the capability requirements in the mitigation stage are evaluation, monitoring, and dissemination, while in the preparedness stage, planning, exercise, and training are the important requirements in managing natural disasters. In the response stage, the capabilities required are need assessment, information exchange, and logistical expertise. At the last stage, which is recovery, expertise in damage assessment and debris removal and also disaster assistance skills are the capabilities most needed for local government bodies. Originality/value: This paper develops the capability needed by local government for managing natural disasters. The paper also delineates the role and obstacles of local government bodies dealing in pre-, during, and post-disaster stages. These capability requirements can be applied to natural disaster management in developing countries. © Emerald Group Publishing Limited.