In past wars and disasters, secrecy has been an advantage, allowing propaganda to support the war effort and public perceptions. Modern phones and the internet has changed our reactions to disasters. The 2004 Asian tsunami and the communications with hijacked passengers on the 9/11 aircraft introduced instantaneous access for the whole world to see disasters unfold in real time. The recent mud slides across Nepal have been captured in high definition on a myriad of mobile phones. (So many missing and so little time, ST, 30/8). The world has seen first hand the full extent of the disaster and can safely mobilise its resources to minimise secondary casualties but appropriate and measured reactions. The iPhone and its various android equivalents are surely a great blessing in minimising uncertainty during crises and even being a means of locating victims carrying these devices. No doubt the family of Australian Cara Severino are thankful their trekking daughter was able to confirm her survival so early. For all the bad publicity surrounding the overuse of phones and the evils of social media, perhaps we can all agree on their superlative benefits during disaster. RIP to those lost so unexpectedly. Alan Sexton, Nth Parramatta 6September2026
