Abstract
Understandability is critical for the effective aids of hazard map for local residents to evacuate to safety in the event of a natural disaster. In this study, we examined 86 flood hazard maps (53 for prefectural capitals and major cities and 33 for municipalities in Osaka) made available on the Internet by the local governments, from cognitive psychological points of view. We focused on icons of legend on the maps if they are designed easy to understand for residents. In particular, we dealt with examples of inadequate design created without consistent, unified design principle; and investigated possibilities of improving the clarity of legend icons.
