A study proposes five action fronts for civil defense units to increase their organizational capacity, including professionalization and resource allocation. Municipalities face challenges such as monitoring urban expansion, lack of financial resources, and social participation.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·DateMay 12, 2025
Researchers from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology built three embankment dams to divert lava flows in Iceland, delaying the molten lava by up to 16 days. The dams were constructed using in situ material and showed promising results in protecting civil society and critical infrastructure.
SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalBulletin of Volcanology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2025
Exposure to high levels of smoke pollution increases hospitalizations for respiratory diseases in older adults. The study highlights the need for interventions to mitigate the health impacts of wildfire smoke exposure.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 30, 2025
A recent analysis found that rates of colorectal cancer diagnoses dropped during Hurricanes Irma and Maria and the COVID-19 pandemic in Puerto Rico, but late-stage diagnoses eventually exceeded expectations. Limited access to cancer screening services due to these disasters likely hindered timely CRC diagnoses.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A new AI-powered training platform is being developed to simulate pipeline incidents and provide real-world scenarios for pipeline operators. The platform will use artificial intelligence to create a realistic environment where teams can practice handling hazardous conditions and responding to emergencies.
A new study reveals that 81% of O’ahu's coastline could experience erosion by 2100, with a further 40% loss happening by 2030. The research used computer models incorporating satellite imagery to predict the seasonal movement of sand, resulting in more severe erosion projections than previous studies.
SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 10, 2025
A new study reveals that two dam failures and flawed risk assessment amplified the Derna Flood, which was nearly twentyfold more destructive than expected. The research highlights the urgent need for improved flood mitigation strategies, especially in dryland regions.
SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 28, 2025
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
Researchers have shown that earthquakes in the Marmara region transport a large amount of energy towards Istanbul, with most quakes exhibiting an eastward rupture direction. This finding has important implications for urban planning, emergency response, and seismic hazard maps, which will be taken into account in future studies.
SourceGFZ Helmholtz-Zentrum für Geoforschung·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 14, 2025
A new book by Komla Dzigbede explores the ability of local governments to learn, adapt, and innovate in the face of major crises. The book analyzes disaster preparedness, response, and economic development post-disaster, offering practical lessons for local leaders.
A new study suggests that artificial intelligence can effectively detect wildfires in the Amazon rainforest, using satellite imaging and deep learning. The technology achieved a 93% success rate in training models via datasets of images with and without wildfires.
SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalInternational Journal of Remote Sensing·DateMar 6, 2025
Researchers at Mizzou have developed a proactive approach using artificial intelligence to address evolving threats against smart grids. The CIBR-Fort system can predict cyberattacks with 91.88% accuracy and defend against them in real-time, enabling scalable security for power grids of the future.
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.
Researchers introduce a performance-based framework that integrates hydroclimate variability, hydrology, machine learning, community knowledge and feedbacks between physical and social systems. This approach enhances understanding of flood risks while emphasizing long-term community resilience.
Researchers studied pumice rafts from the 2021 Fukutoku-Oka-no-Ba eruption in Japan, finding three phases of evolution involving rounding, fragmentation, and biodiversity increase. The study provides valuable information for mitigating the impact of future eruptions on shoreline communities.
SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalProgress in Earth and Planetary Science·DateFeb 22, 2025
A new study reveals that downtown Houston skyscrapers designed to withstand hurricanes are actually more vulnerable to intense, localized wind forces called downbursts. The research found that these strong winds can cause significant damage to facade panels, cladding, and windows on lower floors.
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Built Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2025
Researchers propose a new local electricity market to harness the power of homeowners' grid-edge devices in case of outages or attacks. Devices like solar panels and electric vehicles can pump power into the grid or rebalance consumption.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 20, 2025
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.
Researchers developed a quantitative evaluation method for energy resilience in disasters by simulating power outage scenarios in buildings with solar power generators and storage batteries. The study found that energy resilience is highest when the power outage coincides with daylight hours.
SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·Journale-Prime - Advances in Electrical Engineering Electronics and Energy·DateFeb 20, 2025
Researchers created cyborg insects with sensors and electronic circuits to aid in disaster relief and navigation. The insects demonstrated ability to overcome obstacles in complex environments, achieving objectives with less effort than purely mechanical robots.
SourceOsaka University·JournalSoft Robotics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 13, 2025
Researchers at Incheon National University have developed a new AI-powered solution to improve high-speed users' connectivity in 5G and 6G networks. The method significantly reduces errors and improves data reliability by prioritizing key parameters such as angles and delays.
SourceIncheon National University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Wireless Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 6, 2025
A recent study published in the International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction found that US homeowners take proactive steps to protect their properties before and after hurricanes, but often fall short due to inadequate regulations. The study's methodology provides a framework for future research on incentivizing comprehensive prote...
SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·TypeSurvey·DateJan 15, 2025
A survey conducted by Professor Takahiro Endo at Osaka Metropolitan University found that Hiroshima Prefecture provided a free water inspection service for well owners after the 2018 floods, promoting their initiative to open inspected wells to the public. This collaborative effort supplemented local governments' emergency water supply...
SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalWater International·TypeCase study·DateJan 14, 2025
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
A new publication provides comprehensive guidance for public drinking water system staff on responding to wildfire damage, outlining key findings from previous disasters. The guidance aims to improve detection of chemical contamination, reduce customer notification delays, and restore safe drinking water delivery quickly.
Researchers found that taller Japanese black pine trees have deeper roots, making them more resistant to disasters. Shorter trees are more likely to fall due to inadequate root growth.
SourceNagoya University·JournalJournal of Forest Research·DateJan 8, 2025
A new study finds that California's wildfire response is biased towards wealthier communities, leaving marginalized populations without access to necessary resources. The analysis of over 500 wildfire incidents revealed a significant disparity in resource allocation based on socio-demographic factors such as race and economic status.
Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University found that agricultural land preserved around river confluences can reduce flood risks, with stronger correlation near confluence points. This Eco-DRR approach uses existing environmental resources to improve resilience against flooding.
SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalEnvironmental and Sustainability Indicators·DateDec 7, 2024
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.
A new UN University study reveals Hurricane Helene's devastating impacts, with over 31,000 buildings affected and $12.5 billion in threatened property value. The disaster highlights the urgent need for investment in resilient infrastructure and improved land-use planning to mitigate future extreme weather events.
A new study provides a comprehensive breakdown of how water injected into the Permian Basin changes subsurface pressures and causes earthquakes. The research offers insights that oil and gas operators and regulators can use to reduce seismicity and associated hazards.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalAAPG Bulletin·DateDec 2, 2024
The new system uses AI technology combined with Earth observation data to detect risks of events that might trigger forced displacement, delivering timely alerts ahead of emergencies. It will help humanitarian actors plan and respond more effectively, minimizing response times and avoiding duplication of efforts.
SourceLuxembourg Institute of Science and Technology·DateNov 14, 2024
A machine learning model predicts soil behavior during earthquakes, identifying areas vulnerable to liquefaction and providing contour maps for safer construction sites. The study uses geological data to create detailed 3D maps of soil layers, improving prediction accuracy by 20%.
SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalSmart Cities·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 28, 2024
The Lancet Commission on Investing in Health recommends focusing on 15 priority health conditions to achieve a 50% reduction in premature deaths. Raising taxes on tobacco is key, with estimates suggesting it could reduce mortality rates by more than any other single policy.
SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 14, 2024
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.
Researchers have developed AI-enabled detection software that can accurately detect natural debris, litter, or waste blocking culverts. The system can be integrated to existing CCTV systems to provide proactive flood defense, improving safety for response teams.
SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Flood Risk Management·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 9, 2024
A new study reveals the flood insurance program's effects differ greatly among communities, with higher-population and wealthier areas benefiting more from discounts on premiums. Lower-income communities also see benefits, but only in areas with less racial and ethnic diversity, realizing a gain of about $6,000 per household.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 30, 2024
A study found increased menstrual irregularities in women living in areas affected by the 2023 earthquake in Turkey. Risk factors included post-traumatic stress symptoms, chronic diseases, and smoking.
Researchers aim to reduce PFAS contamination risk in agriculture by developing monitoring tools and strategies for remediation. The study focuses on comprehensively understanding PFAS uptake and bioaccumulation in plants, advancing strategies for PFAS remediation in biosolid/soil.
A three-year research study led by the University of Kansas is establishing best 'managed retreat' practices for communities at risk from repeated flooding and wildfires due to climate change. The study aims to understand how different cities and governments have considered managed retreat, including strategies like buyouts and partner...
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.
The Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior (SNEB) has issued a position paper emphasizing the importance of emergency-related food and nutrition education before, during, and after disasters. The paper highlights challenges in accessing safe, nutritious foods and beverages in post-disaster situations, particularly among historica...
SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 10, 2024
A hybrid disaster response approach that combines local data collection with remote expertise saved lives in the Haiti earthquake. Traditional Haitian construction techniques proved to be more effective than modern approaches, with certain homes built using these methods performing better in the earthquake.
SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalBulletin of Earthquake Engineering·TypeCase study·DateJun 14, 2024
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a method of monitoring infrastructure using Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) remote sensing systems. This technology allows for early detection of issues, reducing the need for time-consuming repairs.
SourceTexas A&M University·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateJun 6, 2024
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.
A new study by the Colorado School of Public Health found that high ICU occupancy levels during COVID-19 patients' stays contributed to increased mortality rates. The research highlights the critical need for tools to anticipate surges and effective resource management in healthcare systems.
SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalBMJ Open·DateMay 30, 2024
Climate change is driving sudden onset of drying in South America and southern Africa, while Central Asia sees increased moisture due to warming temperatures
SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 21, 2024
Researchers suggest three measures to improve EEW alerts: conducting nationwide drills, maintaining safe environments, and adding clear instructions to encourage immediate action. Studies found that people often wait for tremors to begin instead of taking protective measures, highlighting the need for more effective warning systems.
SourceDoshisha University·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·TypeObservational study·DateMay 21, 2024
A recent study by University of Hawaii at Manoa researchers highlights the hidden threat of global underground infrastructure vulnerability to sea-level rise. Shallow and saltier groundwater exacerbates corrosion and failure of critical systems such as sewer lines, roadways, and building foundations in cities worldwide.
SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalAnnual Review of Marine Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 15, 2024
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
A study analyzed over 2,000 tweets before and after Hurricane María made landfall, revealing insights into social media use during disasters. The research identified key categories of messages, including information about the disaster, emotional appeals for help, and solidarity efforts among marginalized communities.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Environmental Studies and Sciences·TypeContent analysis·DateApr 9, 2024
The rapid assessment of the Kakhovka Dam breach has estimated that half a million hectares of protected habitats have been exposed to hazards, including nutrients and pollutants. The study will support international action to restore a biodiversity hotspot in southern Ukraine.
SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 18, 2024
A 10-year study monitored the recovery of macroinvertebrate communities after a red sludge disaster in Hungary, finding that severe disturbances hinder long-term recovery. Community recovery dynamics were found to vary with disturbance severity.
SourceHun-Ren Ökológiai Kutatóközpont·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 22, 2024
A recent study from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem uncovers notable correlations between the Indian Ocean and precipitation in the Middle East, which may lead to seasonal prediction of Fall precipitation. The research highlights a discernible upward trend in crucial Indian Ocean climate indices over the last four decades, indicatin...
SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 13, 2024
New research finds that PAHs in wildfire smoke can persist on indoor materials for weeks, posing health risks. Effective household cleaning techniques, such as laundering cotton and using glass cleaners, can significantly reduce exposure.
SourcePortland State University·JournalACS ES&T Engineering·DateJan 2, 2024
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
The new platform, Arras Energy, simulates how all parts of an electric grid work together, making it easier to understand and apply the results. The tool can help utilities harden their distribution systems against extreme weather and integrate renewable energy sources.
SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·DateDec 18, 2023
A team of researchers used trail cameras and GPS collars to track the effects of Cyclone Idai on Gorongosa National Park's mammal community. They found that body size was a key predictor of survival, with smaller animals more vulnerable to the storm's impact.
SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateNov 17, 2023
The Society for Disaster Medicine and Public Health will host its annual meeting, featuring Major General (ret) Paul Friedrichs as the keynote speaker. The event focuses on disaster medicine and public health, with discussions on vulnerable populations and AI in emergency response.
SourceSociety for Disaster Medicine and Public Health, Inc.·DateNov 16, 2023
A new research project uses data from over 8,000 gauging stations across Europe to predict mega-floods, reducing the surprise factor of their occurrence. By considering hydrologically similar areas, flood disasters can be anticipated and mitigated, saving lives.
SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 10, 2023
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
A team of engineers at the University of Pittsburgh has created a new robot that can navigate complex environments using bio-inspired neural networks. The robots will be able to avoid obstacles and learn from their experiences, enabling autonomous navigation for various applications such as commercial transport and disaster response.
A new study from the University of Kansas found that mandated disaster plans have mediocre quality and modest improvements over time. Despite regular updates, the plans fail to address key issues such as public engagement and land use policies, leading to repeated mistakes in areas prone to natural disasters.
SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Planning Education and Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 10, 2023
Researchers from the University of Notre Dame found that social media engagement improves when national and local levels mismatch audiences during recovery phases, increasing user engagement by 29.6%. The study suggests a nuanced approach to content coordination, with national headquarters leading production and local accounts following.
SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalInformation Systems Research·DateOct 10, 2023
A new study from the University of Notre Dame recommends building water projects that allow community collaboration, reducing distances and increasing equity. The research team created a unique dataset to optimize locations and found that community collaboration models outperform traditional methods.
SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalProduction and Operations Management·DateAug 14, 2023
A UK-Sri Lankan research network aimed to develop research capacities among senior academic staff members from both countries. The training network investigated differences, overlaps, and synergies between Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) research communities.
SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·TypeContent analysis·DateAug 8, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
A team of researchers created a deep learning system capable of detecting natural disasters using images from Twitter and Flickr. The system, trained on over 1.7 million photographs, was able to accurately identify incidents such as floods, tornadoes, and forest fires.
SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis and Machine Intelligence·DateJun 28, 2023
A University of Oklahoma assistant professor will study how relationships among non-profits, community groups, and local government agencies can improve disaster resilience by enabling organizational interactions. The project aims to strengthen the knowledge network of resources available to a community during emergencies.
Research suggests that the Bhopal gas disaster had long-term intergenerational effects on health and education. Men exposed in utero to toxic gas had a higher risk of disabilities and cancers, while those born later had reduced educational attainment. The sex ratio of births also changed among children born near the incident site.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 13, 2023
Hospitals affected by ransomware may see increased patient loads and resource strain, impacting time-sensitive care for acute stroke patients. Targeted cyberattacks can have regional disaster implications on healthcare delivery.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 8, 2023
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.
The study reveals that a lack of community involvement and inadequate governance are major contributors to wildfire management in the Amazon region. Local stakeholders identified deficiencies in institutions, staff cuts, and underinvestment as significant vulnerabilities.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·DateApr 5, 2023