A Multi-Hazard Platform for Cultural Heritage at Risk: The STORM Risk Assessment and Management Tool

Abstract

In response to the adverse effects of natural hazards and climate change threats on cultural heritage, a methodology of risk assessment and management was developed and applied to five pilot sites: the Historical Centre of Rethymno in Greece, the Mellor Heritage Project in the United Kingdom, the Roman Ruins of Tróia in Portugal, the Baths of Diocletian in Italy, and the Ancient City of Ephesus in Turkey. According to the methodology, a practical and easy-to-use tool was implemented to help the end-users in managing the impacts of natural hazards and climate change on their cultural heritage sites. The tool comprises three major phases: Site Hazard Assessment, Risk Assessment, and Risk Management Strategies. It assists site managers and experts to identify sudden- and slow-onset natural hazards and climate change threats and to assess their corresponding risks to different areas of the pilot sites. The tool is linked to a web-GIS service, which is capable of providing hazard and risk information and maps for each pilot site. The module Risk Management Strategies enables the user to define risk treatment strategies and associated measures in response to each hazard. Overall, the tool facilitates a shared understanding of the risk data and maps among the multiple stakeholders engaged in the protection of cultural heritage sites to enable a more effective decision-making process.