Reporting accurate death tolls during natural disasters is complicated by various factors. These include disruptions in communication, inconsistent tracking methods among agencies, and a lack of coordination in reporting deaths. Journalists are encouraged to continuously inquire about fatalities and injuries, especially as reports may change rapidly as events unfold. A specific case cited was Hurricane Ian in Florida, where the death count was found to be at least 15% higher than official reports due to these discrepancies. Multiple agencies often report differently, leading to overlaps that complicate accurate accounting.
"Accurately reporting death tolls from natural disasters is something that journalists and the media have long struggled with, and I think there are a number of reasons for that."
"The most important thing for journalists is to keep asking questions about deaths and injuries, again and again and again, and ask for details."
"They all report differently and there was a good deal of overlap...sometimes both of them would generate a report."
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