A new set of assessment tools shows promise in capturing how the COVID-19 pandemic affects patterns of criminal activity. The toolkit uses resilience theory to examine the impact of exceptional events on crime patterns, with preliminary evidence linking the pandemic to increased domestic violence and declines in other forms of crime.
A study by University of Arizona researchers found that Black and Hispanic people are more likely to live in areas at high risk of flooding. The study suggests that certain reforms to the National Flood Insurance Program could disproportionately negatively impact these groups.
A new study by UC Davis researchers incorporates natural capital into climate change cost models, revealing large implications for climate policy. The authors found that the social cost of carbon is likely too low, and rapid mitigation of climate damage to natural systems is warranted.
Researchers suggest using scientific data and predictive frameworks to identify risks of lead release, improving testing strategies and anticipating problems. Citizen scientists can aid in data gathering with mobile test kits, while AI and machine learning help identify relationships between water conditions and lead levels.
A new study reveals that environmental factors drive migration, particularly in regions with middle incomes and agriculture. Climate change impacts vary by hazard type and context, with changing temperatures having the strongest effect.
A study found that urban wood storks fared better than their natural counterparts during suboptimal conditions, exploiting urban resources to improve reproductive performance. They switched to anthropogenic food sources, including trash and amphibians, to supplement their diets.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University are developing an AI-powered system to automatically identify buildings and assess damage using amateur drone videos. The system, called MSNet, can overlay masks on damaged areas and determine the severity of damage, enabling faster and more accurate damage assessments.
A new study from Oregon State University found that natural disasters alone are not enough to motivate local communities to engage in climate change mitigation or adaptation. Policy change appears to depend on a combination of factors, including fatalities, media coverage, and community politics.
A new study reveals that oil and natural gas pipelines are major contributors to carbon emissions, with seven out of eight pipelines being foreign-owned. The study prioritizes climate lawsuits targeting these facilities, which could lead to increased insurance costs for fossil-fuel companies.
Increasing crop diversity in landscapes with high proportions of semi-natural habitats increases the diversity of beneficial insects like pollinators and ground beetles. This benefit was only observed in landscapes with both high crop diversity and semi-natural habitat cover.
A new study is analyzing how COVID-19 affects modern slavery survivors and victims, identifying risk factors such as non-detection, re-trafficking, and limited access to support services. The research aims to provide urgent recommendations for mitigation and protect those at risk from exploitation.
A recent research development introduces a pioneering theory of three-pattern decomposition of global atmospheric circulation. This new system improves the accuracy of climate prediction by unifying atmospheric motions in different latitudes. The theory has been praised as an original and innovative achievement with international level.
A study found that Gulf Coast children who were exposed to the oil spill had a significantly higher likelihood of experiencing physical and mental health problems. The impacts persisted years after the disaster, with physical health issues being 4.5 times more common in directly exposed children.
Researchers used 2018 Japan floods to calibrate a machine learning model to predict Typhoon Hagibis' flooding impact. The model accurately identified inundated areas, verifying AI's potential for learning from past disasters.
Methane levels have surged globally, primarily driven by coal mining, oil and gas production, and cattle farming. The potent greenhouse gas poses a significant threat, with potential consequences including wildfires, droughts, and social disruptions.
Researchers found that natural-origin sorbent materials, including peat moss, dog fur, and human hair products, can be effective in cleaning up oil spills on land. Sustainable options like dog fur and human hair show promise as cheaper and biodegradable alternatives to synthetic fabrics.
The UCSC-led research center aims to understand the basic biological mechanisms of botanical natural products and address challenges in studying their variability and clinical trial design. The center will use innovative screening platforms to measure the effects of complex botanical natural products on cells.
Historic floods have shown salt marshes' ability to confine breach depth, reducing flood damage by lowering inundation depths. This natural defense can greatly enhance coastal safety, even in areas where preserving or developing marshes is not possible.
A study by Shinshu University researchers used input-output analysis to quantify economic damage from Japan's earthquakes. The study found that the largest earthquakes require significant economic assistance for initial production and recovery, with some requiring up to 50% of initial production until recovery.
Scientists have discovered man-made mercury pollution in the Marianas Trench, the deepest part of the ocean. This finding has significant implications for the marine environment and food chain, highlighting the impact of human activities on the planet.
China experienced a warm year in 2019, with mean temperature 0.79°C above normal and annual rainfall 2.5% above normal. Disaster risks were reduced, leading to less economic loss and fewer fatalities.
A new study highlights the critical role of mangroves and coral reefs in protecting coastal communities from climate-related disasters. With over 8.5 million people benefiting directly from these natural defenses, conservation and restoration efforts are essential to address growing vulnerability across highly exposed regions.
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed major deficiencies in the US healthcare system, highlighting the need for improved health maintenance and emergency preparedness. The article argues that public health systems are underfunded and understaffed, leading to inadequate responses to slow-moving mass casualty incidents like COVID-19.
A team of investigators at the University of Kansas is developing mathematical models to project how different interventions can stem the spread of COVID-19. The models will account for human behavior, such as public fear and adherence to disease-control measures.
A new study by Yale researchers finds that natural disasters can trigger catastrophic domino effects through urban trade networks, with secondary economic impacts often exceeding local costs. Regional cities most vulnerable due to dependence on industrial supplies and limited suppliers.
A new modeling tool helps city planners and emergency managers assess the full functionality and recovery of a healthcare system after a disaster. The model evaluates complex network dynamics, including staff availability, patient waiting times, and resource allocation.
The study evaluates impact response of ultra-high-strength concrete with different steel fiber contents and section heights. Increasing steel fiber content reduces damage by 30-50%, enabling enhanced building safety in high-rise buildings, bridges, and roads.
Researchers from the University of Bristol used social media data to accurately estimate downtime and recovery of small businesses after natural disasters. The method analyzes aggregated posting activity to infer business status, allowing for 'real-time' forecasting of economic impact.
A new study published in Global Environmental Change journal found that climate-related disasters enhance armed conflict risks in vulnerable countries. Researchers discovered that almost one-third of all conflicts onsets in these countries are preceded by a climate-related disaster within seven days.
A recent study reveals that climate disasters increase the risk of armed conflicts in vulnerable countries, where large populations, political exclusion, and low development create instability. The research combines statistical analysis with regional case studies to demonstrate the link between disaster occurrence and conflict onsets.
A cloud-based supply chain management system for emergency response has been developed by Purdue University researchers. The system allows for real-time tracking of supplies and aid, enabling better targeting of assistance to those most in need. This innovation aims to improve outcomes for individuals impacted by natural disasters.
Cervical cancer screening rates dropped by over 3% in four areas of Miyagi Prefecture after the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, with rates still lower five years later. Long-term monitoring is needed to restore screening rates in affected areas.
Sandia's Resilient Energy Systems campaign aims to defend large electrical utility systems against cyberhacks, electromagnetic disturbances, and natural disasters. The Assured Survivability and Agility with Pulsed Power research campaign explores technologies to simulate nuclear explosions without actual tests, aiming to maintain the U...
Researchers found a strong 'cross-correlation' between inter-earthquake distances and times, especially after large earthquakes. The study's results could help seismologists better understand earthquake patterns and inform policymakers about disaster preparedness.
Researchers at Rice University found that Buffalo Bayou's natural form is better at absorbing floodwater and preventing it from spilling over into heavily populated areas. The study shows that urban development in the Brays watershed increased the 100-year flood plain, making it more prone to flooding.
A new study reveals that conserving natural habitat around strawberry fields can decrease crop damage costs by up to 23% and increase yields, without compromising food safety. Removing natural habitat, on the other hand, can lead to significant cost increases of up to 76%.
A recent study by botanist Cody Coyotee Howard uncovered two ranges of optimum bulb diameter driven by natural selection, with larger bulbs thriving in warmer climates. The research has significant implications for understanding plant evolution, agriculture, and horticulture.
The top ten list reveals Hurricane Harvey as the most extreme event, followed by Hurricane Sandy and deadly Hurricane Maria. The cost of all ten events totalled over $400bn, with devastating consequences including widespread flooding and injuries.
Researchers found that reconnecting with nature enhances human health and encourages environmental protection. People who visit natural spaces weekly report better wellbeing, while also being more likely to engage in eco-friendly activities.
Climate change could lead to a 30-70% increase in landslide activity in the border region of China and Nepal, causing flash floods and downstream disasters. The study used satellite estimates and modeled precipitation data to project future landslide trends.
A recent study found that Wikipedia's coverage of natural disasters is biased towards wealthy countries, particularly the USA and Canada. The study analyzed 458 flood events and found a greater tendency to cover these events in middle- and high-income countries.
Researchers break down amino acid glutamine when bombarded with different doses of electrons. This process has implications for understanding the effect of ionising radiation on human cells and improving cancer radiotherapy.
Researchers aim to create a less expensive and efficient natural gas storage system using super-absorbent materials, enabling smaller tanks for vehicles.
A new study from George Washington University found that many dermatologists lack preparedness training for biological disasters. The survey of 200 dermatologists revealed only 28.9% received training in disaster preparedness and response.
A new study finds that volunteer tourism can aid disaster recovery in communities by considering local conditions and the community's needs. The study examined the impact of volunteer tourism programs in Nepal after the 2015 earthquake, showing its potential to contribute to recovery and resilience.
The University of Oklahoma received a $4.5 million grant to apply cutting-edge science and tools for climate adaptation in the south-central United States. Researchers will focus on decision-making support for Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana, and New Mexico.
Chinese scientists made significant contributions to climate studies, including statistical analyses of temperature and precipitation changes. They studied the formation mechanisms of climate disasters and extreme events, laying the physical foundation for climate disaster prediction in China.
A University of Queensland-led team proposes a global goal to limit the loss of nature by setting a 'no net loss' target for natural ecosystems. The researchers considered socioeconomic factors across 170 countries and recognized the need for equitable contributions to conservation and restoration.
A new MIT study examines the opposing roles of natural gas in the battle against climate change, as a bridge toward a lower-emissions future and a contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. To meet greenhouse gas reduction targets over the coming decade, present methods of controlling methane leakage would have to improve by 30-90 percent.
Outdated laws hinder pharmacists from providing timely treatment to displaced people in disaster-affected regions. The current model focuses on high-acuity patients, but vulnerable groups require longer-term assistance.
Yu Zhang is studying how to assess costly economic and ecological impacts of natural disasters on industries and waterways around the Neches River basin in southeast Texas. He's investigating whether wetlands can filter out pollutants that enter Texas waterways following extended flooding.
A recent study found that people who pray before donating tend to give less than they would have otherwise. However, simply thinking about the victims had no significant effect on donation levels. The research suggests that prayers can act as a substitute for material help in some contexts.
A NASA study found that near-real-time satellite data can save an average of nine minutes per emergency response, potentially saving millions of dollars in disaster scenarios. The research used the 2011 Southeast Asian floods as a case study and developed a model to deploy in future disasters.
Researchers found that early childhood teachers can help secure the emotional development of children dealing with trauma. Teachers can use holistic approaches, educate children about emergencies, and maintain trust to build self-esteem and resilience. They should also involve parents in emergency planning and provide consistent routines.
A new research project aims to improve natural disaster emergency preparedness and response in countries badly affected by earthquakes, flooding, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis. The RESPOND-OR project will investigate issues relating to emergency response management of large-scale natural disasters in Indonesia and Sudan.
Experts from the University of Surrey have found that nature-based solutions (NBS) can effectively combat climate-related natural disasters. NBS were used to combat floods and heatwaves, with hybrid solutions being the most frequently used method in Europe.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Arlington are using unmanned aerial vehicles to quickly assess damage from natural disasters. The team aims to reduce wait times for homeowners to receive insurance adjusters, who often take months or years to visit their sites.
Researchers analyze data on international emergency events between 1960 and 2015, revealing growing hazards posed by severe events linked to climate change. Economic damages rise sharply worldwide, including in temperate areas, as death tolls from extreme temperature events increase in poor and rich countries.
The economic cost of natural disasters has increased disproportionately for major events like hurricanes and tornadoes, while lesser events have seen less growth. Climate change is driving these increases, with the top 1% of damages estimated to rise by $26 million annually.
Repeated disasters and environmental changes are rapidly eroding the land in Southeastern Louisiana, affecting the tribe's ability to sustain its culture, health, and livelihoods. Tribe members express a deep sense of grief about the lost land and lack of agency in decisions impacting them.