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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Malith Senevirathne, a PhD student from the University of Huddersfield's Global Disaster Resilience Centre, attended a special reception at Buckingham Palace to celebrate Commonwealth Day 2023. The event highlighted the theme 'Forging a sustainable and peaceful common future' and promoted democracy, human rights, and equality for Commo...
Researchers developed a SMART approach to engage with communities in developing real-time early warning systems for floods, combining meteorological data with social factors. This approach aims to improve protection for vulnerable people and properties, particularly in mountainous regions.
A new national study found that households facing housing insecurity score lower on disaster preparedness scales, highlighting the importance of secure housing for disaster resilience. Housing security is vital for people to be better prepared for disasters, according to researchers.
A new approach uses crowdsourced data from affected people to estimate earthquake impact within 10-20 minutes, potentially aiding early disaster management. The system analyzes 'felt intensity' reports, providing a basis for quickly assessing the severity of damage.
Researchers found that solar water disinfection (SODIS) was effective in inactivating Escherichia coli bacteria at both low and high altitudes. At high altitudes, bacterial inactivation increased by 1.7-fold after two hours, with no significant differences after six hours. The study highlights the potential of SODIS to improve global a...
SourceElsevier·JournalWilderness and Environmental Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 1, 2023
Researchers analyzed two US Army Corps of Engineers flood megaprojects in Rhode Island that emerged simultaneously after hurricane activity around the 1950s. The study found that strong public support and political backing were crucial factors in advancing one project, while the other failed to gain momentum due to environmental concer...
Jamie Padgett, a leading expert in infrastructure sustainability and resiliency, has received the Edith and Peter O'Donnell Award from TAMEST. Her groundbreaking research focuses on identifying and minimizing risks to critical infrastructure, enhancing public safety and promoting disaster resilience.
A team of researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University and other institutions has identified a flexible and user-friendly model for predicting flood frequency in a changing environment. The fractional polynomial-based regression method is more effective than existing models, which often fail to account for factors like climate ...
A team at the University of Tokyo has discovered that analyzing the ratio of argon-40 to helium-3 in magma gases can indicate the risk of different types of eruption. By monitoring these gas ratios, scientists hope to develop a portable equipment for real-time, on-site measurements, enabling early warning systems and potentially saving...
Researchers at Cornell University found that FEMA's federal home buyout policies are inaccessible and inequitable due to bureaucratic hurdles. By studying regional and state programs, the team suggests that coordinating local strategies can make these buyouts more effective and equitable for all communities.
Using 1980s environmental inventories, researchers found that disaster risk assessment could have predicted the damage from the Great East Japan Earthquake. The study compared composite risk maps from the 1980s with post-2011 hazard maps to show a significant increase in high-risk areas.
The US Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory has developed a massive geographic dataset, USA Structures, using deep learning to forecast potential damage and accelerate emergency response. The dataset provides critical information on building outlines and attributes, enabling FEMA to prioritize response efforts.
The Program Keluarga Harapan (PKH) has shown positive results in helping poor households develop proactive coping strategies before and during natural disasters. Researchers found that the existing program strengthened financial capital but had limited impact on human and physical capitals, highlighting the need for integrated social p...
Researchers developed a machine learning model to analyze how susceptible overhead transmission lines are to damage from back-to-back natural hazards. The study found that previous damage can have a significant impact on the fragility and reliability of power grids, especially when followed by a hurricane.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed an algorithm that enables 2D materials to maintain their mechanical strength after conversion into 3D structures. The algorithm is inspired by kirigami art and mimics the structure of nacre, a natural shell coating known for its robust mechanical properties.
The study found anxiety, insomnia, and depression were prevalent mental health issues among quarantined individuals. Around 70% of mental health issues resolved with brief counseling sessions, highlighting the need for targeted support in disaster responses.
A workshop on flood risk governance in Brazil and the UK identified research gaps, including local data, integration systems, and visualization tools. Innovative initiatives are being developed using tools such as an app that empowers citizens to input data and improve disaster prevention.
A new study examines the impact of sea level rise on building foundations and proposes a method for inspection and repair to lower costs. The researchers estimate that the annual repair cost for foundations in Mobile, Alabama, could total $90 million by 2100.
A collaborative university/community model evaluates the impact of disasters on local business owners and identifies actions to increase resiliency. The study found that most businesses took few concrete actions in terms of mitigation and preparedness, highlighting the need for increased awareness and confidence in disaster planning.
A team of researchers developed a unified model to predict human movement during large-scale extreme events. The model reveals 'spatiotemporal decay' and 'temporal decay,' showing people limit their mobility near disaster zones and exhibit faster changes in lower income areas.
A new national study found that households led by women, those with children under age 18, renters, low-income individuals, and minority groups are less likely to be minimally prepared for disasters. The researchers recommend targeting these vulnerable groups with disaster preparedness resources.
Scientists argue that system thinking can better understand the world's rapidly changing dynamics, considering both social and ecological factors. The article highlights the importance of this approach in addressing climate change-induced natural disasters, such as increased frequency and danger of wildfires.
A new study by Bigelow Laboratory confirms the effectiveness of chemical dispersants in breaking down oil in seawater under real-world conditions. The researchers found that dispersants were effective if applied within two to four days, a typical time frame for oil spill response.
A Brazilian study found that inclusion of visually impaired individuals is crucial for effective disaster prevention policy. The research highlighted barriers to their participation and proposed solutions such as smartphone apps and education to mitigate vulnerability to environmental hazards.
Experts propose a consensus approach to address the impact of forest fires on human health. The method emphasizes controlled burns as a tool to reduce explosive wildfires and improve forest health. The approach also prioritizes inclusivity in decision-making, particularly for populations disproportionately affected by smoke exposure.
A new study by Anglia Ruskin University found that 90% of redeployed nurses felt stressed or anxious during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this, many reported strong motivation to help, driven by a sense of duty and care for patients. The research highlights the need for comprehensive resilience strategies in healthcare services.
Researchers from North Carolina State University have released a dataset providing detailed information on COVID-19 vaccine shipments and wastage across the US. The data aims to inform modeling and decision-making to optimize vaccine supply chains.
A study examines the applicability of Cauchy and Cauchy-Froude laws to multi-storey masonry structures with flexible diaphragms. The findings suggest that these laws may be inadequate for heavy structures unless gravity is scaled.
A recent study by Anglia Ruskin University found that UK hospitals face significant challenges in maintaining capacity and vital services during extreme events, with an average staff capability of attendance at 61%. The research highlights the need for comprehensive disaster management strategies to mitigate against risks.
A novel framework for improving scientific understanding of 'recurrent acute disasters' (RADs) has been developed to account for legacy conditions that leave people vulnerable in the wake of repeated disasters. The framework proposes a holistic view of the 'human ecosystem' and trends in legacy conditions.
Debra Laefer, a Professor at NYU Tandon School of Engineering, receives the Harry Schnabel Jr. Award for her novel approach to urban mapping and remote sensing technologies. Her work has led to projects in disaster mitigation and response, as well as protecting architecturally significant buildings from sub-surface construction.
The number of wildfires is projected to increase by 50% by 2100 due to climate change and land-use changes. Governments are called to radically shift their investments to focus on prevention and preparedness.
A new Stanford University study reveals that communities near the West's wildland-urban interface are vulnerable to wildfires due to drought-sensitive ecosystems. The research identifies 18 'double-hazard' zones where plant-water sensitivity and atmospheric dryness create high wildfire risks.
Climate change projections indicate a dramatic increase in extreme rainfall-surge events along the US East and Gulf coasts, with compound flooding events expected to worsen flood risks. Sea level rise and storm intensification are identified as key drivers of this phenomenon.
A new radiocarbon dating method has been developed to accurately date tsunami deposits, offering insights into past disasters and their frequency. Researchers have found that giant tsunamis have occurred at intervals of 100-200 years since the 1611 Keicho Oshu Tsunami.
Geosapiens receives major funding from the Canadian Space Agency to develop innovative approaches to flood mapping. The project aims to integrate satellite imagery data for real-time flood zone identification and risk assessment.
Researchers have designed a novel thermal armour that successfully inhibits the Leidenfrost effect up to 1,150°C and achieves efficient liquid cooling across a wide temperature range. The breakthrough has significant implications for applications in aerospace, space engineering, and next-generation nuclear reactors.
A Brazilian study found a correlation between dealing with COVID-19 and environmental disasters, highlighting the need for improved infrastructure and community resilience. The study also identified a lack of continuity in funding for disaster relief and pandemic response.
A recent study from Texas A&M University found that repeated exposure to major disasters can lead to reduced mental health scores, with cumulative impacts being more significant. The study highlights the need for public health interventions targeting individuals and communities affected by hazards.
New research from a University of South Carolina scientist reveals that rising rivers pose a danger to coastal communities and those farther upstream due to climate change. The study shows how river processes affect entire watersheds down to the coast, contributing to more intense flooding.
Researchers developed a tool to investigate cause of death when skeletonised remains are recovered, providing a breakthrough in forensic lightning pathology. The study identified unique markers of lightning damage deep within the human skeleton, allowing for recognition of lightning strikes even when only dry bone survives.
The emergency food management sector is ill-prepared for digital disaster management due to the lack of effective digital tools. A recent study found that existing digital strategies have not been proven effective or tested, leaving personnel with no guidance on potential best practices and the impact of digital tools.
The five-year project will focus on four themes: climate-informed planning, governance and collaborative capacity, extreme events, and climate justice. The program aims to help communities build resilience to climate-related challenges through research, tools, and knowledge.
A new study suggests microgreens can be grown in small spaces indoors with minimal inputs, providing a reliable source of essential nutrients and antioxidants. Microgreens offer great potential as an efficient food-resilience resource for addressing malnutrition issues and nutrition-security inequality.
Researchers developed DamageMap, an AI system that uses machine learning to identify building damage from post-wildfire images, achieving 92% accuracy. The system can analyze satellite and aerial photos to pinpoint damaged buildings, providing immediate results for first responders and fire victims.
Researchers developed WebFRIS, a web-based platform to provide socio-economic vulnerability analysis and simplify flood risk information. The tool can help formulate targeted solutions and enhance social capacity and resilience in flood-prone regions.
A new study analyzes millions of Twitter posts during three major hurricanes to develop a method for measuring social cohesion. The researchers found that monitoring social media chatter can help decision makers understand how communities communicate during disasters and identify areas for improvement.
A new study suggests that emergency management officials often lack the numeracy skills needed to make best evacuation decisions based on data. The most numerate officials provided additional evacuation times to their coastal communities, while less numerate ones gave less advance warning and over-evacuated tens of thousands more people.
New research from Edith Cowan University reveals responders to the 9/11 terrorist attacks are still suffering 20 years later, with many facing significant health issues related to the event. Cancer and mental health concerns are particularly prevalent among responders.
The conference, INGSA2021, aims to strengthen global coordination in science advice and promote open science. Key findings include the importance of digital technologies and AI in reshaping the profession and the need for partnerships to drive economic and social development.
A new paper proposes reconceptualizing the future using managed retreat, which involves moving people, buildings, and assets from areas vulnerable to hazards. This approach can create a wider range of futures by combining options in different ways.
A new study examines the antecedents of disaster preparedness in firms, finding that organizational experience with disaster is a powerful motivator, but also notes the importance of external learning and collaboration. Effective disaster preparation requires working with others to learn from best practices.