Role of internet-based GIS in effective natural disaster management

Material Information

Title:
Role of internet-based GIS in effective natural disaster management
Creator:
Raheja, Naresh
Ojha, Ruby
Mallik, Sunil R
Disaster Risk Reduction Program, Florida International University (DRR/FIU) ( summary contributor )
Publisher:
R. M. Software India Pvt. Ltd. (RMSI)
Publication Date:
Copyright Date:
2005
Language:
English

Subjects

Subjects / Keywords:
Geographic information systems ( lcshac )
Natural hazards and disasters ( lcshac )
Genre:
non-fiction ( marcgt )

Notes

Summary:
This article addresses the role of web-based GIS applications throughout the disaster management process, from pre-disaster preparedness to post-disaster recovery. The authors conclude with a case study of the San Francisco Red Cross’s online GIS project. Timely and widely available information dissemination is crucial to the success of disaster response efforts. Critical data must be frequently and immediately updated as the situation develops, and must also be accessible “on the fly” by all emergency personnel. The authors present several examples of the uses of internet-based GIS technology for enhancing preparedness and improving recovery efforts. Risk management personnel can use online map data and software to analyze potential scenarios, enabling them to develop responses for multiple contingencies. The map data can be updated and viewed in real-time with current environmental conditions and functional evacuation routes. Utilization of GIS online enables emergency personnel to develop a multi-agency network that can coordinate disaster response efforts. Internet-based GIS is a valuable supplement to existing radio and telecommunications networks, providing situational information on available routes and other environmental conditions. The authors conclude with a case study of the San Francisco Red Cross’s internet-based GIS project to illustrate its potential uses in disaster management settings. When completed, the software will enable field workers to access street-level maps, with location and contact information for local shelters and other critical buildings. Web-based GIS is a valuable supplementary tool in disaster management. More importantly, it is often a critical tool during the actual crisis. Internet GIS applications enable multiple agencies to share real-time geo-spatial data in circumstances in which existing communications networks are often severely restricted.
Subject:
GIS ( English )
Citation/Reference:
Raheja, N., Ojha, R., Mallik, S. (2005). Role of internet-based GIS in effective natural disaster management. R.M. Software India.

Record Information

Source Institution:
Florida International University
Rights Management:
© GISdevelopment.net. All rights reserved.
Resource Identifier:
FI13042562

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Disaster Risk Reduction