How social media can help save lives during hurricanes

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According to Fletcher, it's important to spread information in a way that conveys urgency but isn't irresponsible and terrifying. In an era of "fake news," Fletcher has found that many in her own circles express levels of distrust for traditional media during natural disasters. While detractors cite social media for spreading fake news, for many, social media provided the images of Harvey necessary for them to take the situation seriously and take action for others.

Fletcher notes that, in the hours before Harvey hit, many in the area grew weary of the near-constant official alarms, and simply ignored the warnings. She says it wasn't until the panic started to really spread on social media that people were spurred to action. "I think if people hear things from people they know, they respond better than they do to notices," Fletcher says.