Disaster Response Planning Research Articles

A study on the establishment of database for local government disaster response and decision support system in the nuclear accidents

ABSTRACT Radiological disasters have been recognized as a prominent societal catastrophe worldwide since the Fukushima nuclear accident in 2011. In order to cope with such disasters, efforts have been made to improve disaster response plans and systems based on the lessons learned from the Fukushima accident. Particularly, as demonstrated by the Fukushima case, radiological disasters require the assumption of large-scale evacuation of residents. Thus, it is essential for prompt and accurate decision-making to take place at the local government’s Emergency Management Center (EMC), enabling smooth execution of the missions assigned to personnel at the field. This is crucial for protecting the lives of residents and ensuring their safety. However, the existing systems for effective response to radiological disasters are relatively inadequate compared to other types of disasters. To overcome these limitations, this study aims to develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that are optimized for radiological disaster response by standardizing the Field Measure Motion Manual at nuclear safety for local governments. Based on these SOPs, The Resident Protection Measures Support System (RPMS) will be proposed, which enables the timely dissemination of specific missions and information to personnel, while providing real-time information on the situation at the field to the EMC, supporting decision-making and facilitating effective situation management.

Recommendations to support pandemic resilience among persons with mobility disabilities

Globally, the COVID-19 pandemic underscored barriers faced by people with a mobility disability and how these barriers affect their adaptive capacity during disasters. People with disability are often an afterthought in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery planning. The aim of this study was to synthesize recommendations made by people with mobility disability that may be operationalized to direct political and public action to resources and assets needed to strengthen adaptive capacity for emergency response. We conducted semi-structured interviews with people with a mobility disability from Ontario and Quebec, Canada (n = 16). Participants’ ages ranged from 20 to 86 years, and disability etiology included stroke, spinal cord injury, osteogenic conditions, and other. Following inductive grounded theory methods, we mapped thematic findings of the recommendations onto the responsible sector that would implement improved strategies. Unified action from stakeholders can ensure people with a mobility disability are prioritized in rollout plans, such as mass vaccination efforts or implementation of emergency response benefits. Public health authorities must consider accessible formats of risk communication and continued collaborative healthcare. Organizations similarly have the responsibility for ensuring a continuum of personal support services, recognizing true essential needs during lockdowns and promoting capacity development. In the future, building hybrid models for health services would balance in-person and virtual opportunities for healthcare, education, work, and activities. Finally, the government, healthcare sector, and organizations must work collaboratively to ensure future pandemic responses support the sustainability of innovations that emerged during the pandemic and those that meet the accessibility needs of people with a mobility disability.

Health Impacts of the 2023 Flood in Pakistan: A Comprehensive Case Study on Skin-related Ailments and Waterborne Diseases

The devastating flood that struck Pakistan in 2023 had profound ramifications for public health, leading to a surge in waterborne illnesses and skin-related ailments among the affected populace. This thorough case study delves into the post-flood health consequences, with a specific focus on the emergence of skin rashes, allergies, burns, and heat strokes as formidable challenges. The report underscores the urgent necessity for swift, well-coordinated medical interventions during disasters to effectively alleviate the repercussions on vulnerable communities. The following recommendations could be used to prevent future diseaster situation. Effective management of post-flood scenarios demands meticulous risk assessment and mitigation strategies [2]. Vital to this process is the cultivation of community resilience, achieved through strengthening local capacities, fostering awareness, and promoting community engagement [6]. Integrated water management strategies are imperative to thwart waterborne diseases in the aftermath of floods, encompassing enhanced sanitation infrastructure, secure water supply, and health education [7]. Climate change adaptation must be seamlessly integrated into disaster response plans to tackle the escalating frequency and intensity of floods [10]. Leveraging medical relief and telemedicine, including mobile clinics, can bridge gaps in healthcare access during disasters [9]. These innovations facilitate remote medical consultations and essential healthcare delivery. Recognizing the toll floods take on mental well-being, access to psychosocial support services is paramount [8]. Cross-border collaboration heightens disaster response and recovery [3]. Resource and expertise sharing enhances healthcare interventions in the aftermath of trans-boundary floods. Early warning systems are pivotal in preventing casualties and mitigating health impacts [5]. To ensure equitable outcomes, disaster management must prioritize vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children, tailoring interventions to their distinct needs [1].

A risk minimization based approach for planning evacuation trip distribution

Most studies on evacuation strategies hitherto focus on routing and the resulting traffic pattern. While doing so, such studies generally consider evacuating people to the nearest shelter location (relief point). In this paper, we illustrate why a strategy of evacuating to the nearest relief point would not be the most risk-averse plan. We present a methodology for planning evacuation trip distribution to potential relief points in a risk-averse manner. The procedure explained would help policy makers to identify relief points where capacity must be improved while preparing for a disaster. We present a risk-minimizing formulation that prescribes evacuation trip distribution and corresponding capacity enhancement scheme (RETDC+) for the relief points. To assess the reduction in risk, we compare this formulation with two other formulations: one where risk-averse trip distribution is performed without enhancing the existing capacities (RETDC), and another where trips are distributed to the nearest relief points (PETDC). We envisage to employ failure probability values based on susceptibility maps that are often prepared for disaster response planning. The methodology is demonstrated for the city network of Gangtok, India which is prone to natural disasters such as landslides and flash floods. We illustrate that the evacuation trip matrix obtained by employing the proposed methodology is 20% more risk-averse for landslide and 27% for flash flood, respectively, than the evacuation trip matrix obtained by a naive distribution to the nearest relief points.

APPLICATION OF GOOGLE EARTH ENGINE PLATFORM TO IDENTIFY FLOODED AREAS AND ASSESS FLOOD DEPTH IN QUANG TRI PROVINCE

In recent years, the Application of the Google Earth Engine Platform has gained substantial recognition as a powerful tool for remote sensing and geospatial analysis. This paper delves into its utility within the context of flood monitoring and assessment, focusing on Quang Tri Province for the historic flood in 2020. The study leverages the platform's capabilities to identify and delineate flooded areas, offering a timely and accurate overview of the extent of inundation during flood events. Moreover, the paper demonstrates how the Google Earth Engine Platform enables the assessment of flood depths, providing critical insights for disaster management and response planning. By amalgamating satellite imagery, terrain data, and hydrological information, the study showcases the platform's potential to enhance flood-related decision-making in vulnerable regions like Quang Tri Province. The findings underscore the significance of innovative geospatial technologies in addressing the challenges posed by flooding, ultimately contributing to more effective disaster mitigation strategies and informed policymaking.

Disaster response readiness assessment of public hospitals in Addis Ababa City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Introduction: Due to its diverse geography, climate, and political instability, Ethiopia is one of the countries most affected by disasters. However, there is a lack of evidence-based assessments of disaster preparedness, especially in Addis Ababa, where most tertiary-level referral hospitals are located. This study aims to evaluate disaster readiness in public hospitals in Addis Ababa using WHO standards, focusing on hospital characteristics, disaster plans, infrastructure, and human resources availability. Ultimately, the findings are expected to provide actionable recommendations for improving disaster preparedness in public hospitals in the city. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was utilized using quantitative and qualitative methods to assess disaster response readiness among public hospitals in Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia. Results: This study assessed ten public referral hospitals in Addis Ababa. In the last two years, all but one of the ten public referral hospitals in Addis Ababa have experienced a disaster. Road traffic accidents are responsible for half of all disasters. While 50% of the hospitals have trauma-specific plans, there are no disaster-specific guidelines for the remaining hospital. Moreover, all facilities and ambulances lack communication networks to receive assistance during disasters. A total of 88.8% of emergency and disaster facility level representatives (n=18) stated that their emergency care areas need improvement to be able to manage patients during disasters more effectively. While seven hospitals (70%) have separate disaster medication and equipment storage, only three (43%) are regularly restocked. Furthermore, nearly half of the respondents (44%) reported that their hospital does not have a functional disaster management team, and 61% are unprepared to handle a disaster. Lastly, 33% of the respondents mentioned the Ministry of Health and hospital leaders' commitment as an enabling factor to improve future disaster response readiness. Conclusion: Public referral hospitals in Addis Ababa have significant gaps in disaster management preparedness and response. A comprehensive disaster response plan, including staff training, regular restocking of medication and equipment, and functional communication networks, should be implemented in every public referral hospital. It is imperative that all stakeholders work together, including local government authorities, emergency response teams, and community members, to ensure hospitals are well-equipped to deal with disasters.

Development and update of hospital disaster preparedness and response plan of 25 hub hospitals of Nepal – process documentation

Hospital disaster preparation involves creating systems and processes to enhance a hospital's readiness for emergencies. The first step in crisis management is having a disaster management strategy, mandated by international agreements like the Sendai Framework. The 2015 Nepal earthquake highlighted hospitals' capacity concerns, leading to the inclusion of hub and satellite hospitals in disaster plans. Later, infectious disease management and lessons from COVID-19 were incorporated. The disaster plans for Nepal's 25 hub hospitals, collaborating with Health Emergency Operation Center (HEOC) and Provincial Health Emergency Center (PHEOC), were updated. Workshops aimed to empower participants to own hospital plans. The Hospital Disaster Preparedness and Response Plan (HDPRP) addresses preparedness, response, and recovery, including COVID-19 management. Developed through testing, the HDPRP, along with workshops and engagement strategies, bolsters hospitals' disaster response capabilities.

Disaster Risk Management Practices and Readiness among Selected Science Teachers: A Baseline Framework for Developing Disaster Management Plan"

This qualitative-quantitative research study determined the level of implementation of disaster management practices and readiness for disaster among selected elementary schools in the district of Lemery. There were 48 respondents comprised of elementary teachers and school heads who were further grouped into sex, age, and position. Results revealed that as an entire group, the respondents described the effectiveness of disaster risk management practices in terms of mitigation as “as highly practiced, in terms of preparedness, it was also “highly practiced”, in terms of response, it was described as “highly practiced” and in terms of recovery and rehabilitation plan, it was “highly practiced”. No significant difference was noted effectiveness of the disaster risk management practices of selected elementary school in the district of Lemery as to prevention and mitigation, Disaster Preparedness, Response, recovery and rehabilitation plans as perceived by the respondents when grouped into sex, age and position. The elementary teachers were very much ready in having operational smoke detectors on every level outside the classroom , having operational smoke detectors on every level of the classroom, all learners capable how to use it, all your learners aware of the CPR, having 72-hour minimum disaster supplies on hand.

Flood risk assessment of the river Benue catchment in Adamawa State Nigeria

Floods are one of the most devastating natural disasters that occur globally, causing loss of life and property. Adamawa, a state located in north-eastern Nigeria, is prone to flooding due to its location within the floodplains of the River Benue. The research examines the spatial distribution of flood risk, the role of altitude in determining flood risk levels, and the implications for population exposure. The investigation was carried out in the following local government areas, namely Yola-South, Demsa, Numan, Lamurde, Guyuk, Shelleng and Song. The study used a combination of remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS) techniques to analyze the flood risks extent and exposure within the catchment. SRTM 30 Meters resolution Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data was used to derive catchment boundaries, stream networks and watershed characteristics. 500 years return period flood hazard raster along with a population raster of the settlements within the region of interest were also used. The findings reveal varying flood risk extents, with areas at lower elevations exhibiting higher flood risks. Additionally, the study identifies specific wards within each locality that are situated in different flood risk zones, highlighting the need for localized flood risk assessments. The results demonstrate a correlation between flood risk levels and the percentage of the population exposed to these risks. The study aligns with existing literature on flood risk, altitude, and population vulnerability, emphasizing the importance of considering these factors in flood risk management strategies. The findings contribute to a better understanding of flood risk patterns and can guide policymakers and stakeholders in implementing targeted interventions and developing effective disaster response plans. However, it is essential to contextualize the findings within the specific study areas and complement them with site-specific assessments and further research.

Climate Change, COVID-19, And Flood Disasters In Pakistan.

In the aftermath of recent floods, Pakistan has been confronting several challenges such as infrastructural damages and economic decline. Despite its efforts to prepare for potential pandemics like COVID-19, limited healthcare resources, insufficient funding for research and development, and inadequate public awareness are some of the obstacles that hinder its full preparedness.1 The recent floods have further aggravated Pakistan's struggle to contain COVID-19 by disrupting healthcare services and vaccine distribution.2 Additionally, climate change is affecting maternal and child health in the country, with extreme weather events, such as floods and droughts, causing a decrease in access to essential resources like food and water, and an increase in disease exposure, which ultimately impacts the overall wellbeing of the population.3 Such as malnutrition and the spread of waterborne diseases have a direct impact on the health of pregnant women and children, increasing the risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery and increasing the risk of illness and premature birth, low birth weight, and other health problems in new-borns or even death in early childhood.4,5 Addressing the impact of climate change, COVID-19, and floods on the affected areas in Pakistan requires a multi-faceted approach that involves multiple sectors, including the government, healthcare, and the private sector. Some of the key solutions include: Improving access to healthcare: Increasing the number of healthcare facilities and ensuring that they are equipped with the necessary resources, including personal protective equipment, to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and other health emergencies. Improving access to clean water and sanitation: Providing clean water and sanitation facilities in affected areas to reduce the risk of waterborne diseases, particularly in the aftermath of floods. Strengthening disaster preparedness and response: Implementing effective disaster preparedness and response plans to ensure that communities are prepared for and can quickly respond to extreme weather events and other disasters. Increasing funding for research and development: Supporting research and development activities to find solutions to the challenges posed by climate change, COVID-19, and other health emergencies. Improving public awareness: Increasing public awareness about the importance of preventative measures, such as vaccination, hand hygiene, and healthy behaviours, to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other diseases. Promoting sustainable development: Encouraging sustainable development practices, such as the use of renewable energy sources and conservation of natural resources, to reduce the impact of climate change on the environment and health.

Government Capacity In Handling Tropical Cyclone Idai Induced Flooding In Chipinge District, Manicland Province, Zimbabwe To Support National Security

Tropical Cyclone Idai induced flooding hit Zimbabwe from 15-20 March 2019, killing 349 people and damaging infrastructure worthy billions of dollars. Vulnerability to tropical cyclone flood risk remains high against limited government capacity. The Hyogo Framework for Action (2005-2015) indicators were used to analyse government capacity in handling Cyclone Idai disaster. The study used qualitative methodology alongside descriptive research design. Interviews, field observations and document analysis were employed for data collection. Results of the study are: a) legal framework capacity to handle Cyclone Idai met most priority 1 indicators but with some deficiencies, b) early warning systems were satisfactory and fulfilled all priority 2 indicators, c) collaboration and ego-sectoral approach towards building resilience and a safe culture through education, knowledge and innovation fulfilled all priority 3 indicators, d) efforts to reduce flood risk factors met all priority 4 indicators, and e) the active involvement and participation of stakeholders in flood risk research, education and training met all indicators under priority 5 although a holistic disaster response plan has not been developed. Challenges faced were under-funding and inadequate resources, inattention to issues of social vulnerability and social capital, legal gaps and leadership incapacity. Capacity-building efforts implemented were trainings, increased flood risk information dissemination, participation of schools in risk reduction and environmentally friendly conservation measures. The study recommends government to strengthen legal framework, decentralize disaster experts to districts and, allocate adequate funding and resources for risk reduction. Chipinge district to formulate a disaster response plan and institutional structure, increase disaster knowledge through active community engagement and participation in disaster risk reduction to promote resilience for national security stability.

Questionnaire on employee awareness of disaster mitigation measures in municipal governments

In the event of a disaster, municipal governments are expected to fulfil several responsibilities. However, owing to organizational reforms, cost reductions, and workforce reductions experienced by Japanese municipal governments in the 1990s and 2000s, they have arguably become incapable of providing effective community-based administration. In this context, a questionnaire survey was conducted on the employees of municipal governments in coastal regions of Japan where earthquakes and tsunamis are commonly anticipated. An attempt was made to evaluate the current state of disaster awareness within organizations and among staff members based on the survey results and clarify organizational and individual issues. Those surveyed were 288 officials with significant disaster response roles. The questionnaire survey was conducted to evaluate their understanding of various disaster response measures and their knowledge of their responsibilities. In the questionnaire, three disaster phases were considered: the predisaster, rescue, and reconstruction phases. The responses of each employee corresponding to each phase were recorded. The results indicate that, although various plans were well known to all participants to a certain extent, the level of understanding varied between departments. In addition, departmental employees who were often involved in disaster mitigation were concerned about the coherence and effectiveness of the operations undertaken in various plans. Thus, these issues should be considered in future reviews of disaster response plans. Despite considerable progress in the development and distribution of emergency plans, much remains to be done to raise awareness regarding specific action plans among the staff. This concerns the specificity, coherence, and effectiveness of each plan rather than the knowledge of the personnel.

Assessing the Impact of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami on South Andaman’s Coastal Shoreline: A Geospatial Analysis of Erosion and Accretion Patterns

The 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami significantly impacted the coastal shoreline of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, causing widespread destruction of infrastructure and ecological damage. This study aims to analyze the short- and long-term shoreline changes in South Andaman, focusing on 2004–2005 (pre- and post-tsunami) and 1990–2023 (to assess periodic changes). Using remote sensing techniques and geospatial tools such as the Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS), shoreline change rates were calculated in four zones, revealing the extent of the tsunami’s impact. During the pre- and post-tsunami periods, the maximum coastal erosion rate was −410.55 m/year, while the maximum accretion was 359.07 m/year in zone A, the island’s east side. For the 1990–2023 period, the most significant coastal shoreline erosion rate was also recorded in zone A, which was recorded at −2.3 m/year. After analyzing the result, it can be seen that the tsunami severely affected the island’s east side. To validate the coastal shoreline measurements, the root mean square error (RMSE) of Landsat-7 and Google Earth was 18.53 m, enabling comparisons of the accuracy of different models on the same dataset. The results demonstrate the extensive impact of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami on South Andaman’s coastal shoreline and the value of analyzing shoreline changes to understand the short- and long-term consequences of such events on coastal ecosystems. This information can inform conservation efforts, management strategies, and disaster response plans to mitigate future damage and allocate resources more efficiently. By better understanding the impact of tsunamis on coastal shorelines, emergency responders, government agencies, and conservationists can develop more effective strategies to protect these fragile ecosystems and the communities that rely on them.

Implementation of Hospital Disaster Preparedness and Response Plan in Nepal: A Mixed Study in 3 Public Hospitals of Nepal

Introduction:Considering the need for hospital disaster preparedness post-Nepal earthquake 2015, the Ministry of Health and Population of Nepal developed a Hospital Disaster Preparedness and Response Plan (HDPRP) for mass casualty management. However, until now, there is no scientific literature on how the district hospitals, which are the major health service providers in Nepal, implemented their HDPRP during mass casualty incidents (MCIs). So, this study aims to understand how the HDPRP was implemented during MCIs in three district public hospitals of Nepal.Method:A mixed sequential QUANT-QUAL study was designed. Out of seven districts under the severely hit category by Nepal Earthquake 2015, three districts were selected randomly. For the quantitative component, the WHO hospital emergency response checklist was adapted which was self-administered in each hospital. Based on a scoring system, each hospital was placed in one of three categories (effective, insufficient, unacceptable), to assess the level of HDPRP implementation. For the qualitative component, semi-structured interviews were conducted to understand how the HDPRP was implemented in each hospital. An inductive thematic analysis was carried out. All information was collected for the most recent management of MCI reported in the hospital.Results:Out of three hospitals, two hospitals have effectively implemented their HDPRP, whereas one has insufficient implementation. Three themes emerged during the data analysis: enablers in implementation of HDPRP, barriers in implementation of HDPRP, and recommendations for the future. Multiple enablers and barriers were identified for the implementation of HDPRP, and the recommendations were identified for the hospital, hospital staff, and external stakeholders.Conclusion:Implementation of HDPRP as per the protocol is difficult due to many external and internal factors that arise while managing the MCIs. The findings of this study provide the basis for the Ministry of Health and Population and district hospitals for the future update of HDPRP and planning of MCIs.

Probabilistic assessment of road accessibility under cascading hazards

Natural hazard events such as seismic events tend to trigger cascading hazards damaging the road networks which are multi-component and widespread systems. Road accessibility is vital for response activities including emergency services by critical facilities. For disaster response and recovery planning purposes, a good understanding of hazards in the region and their impact on road accessibility is essential. To achieve this objective the study suggests a comprehensive approach to model hazards and the response of different types of assets that comprise the road network.Due to the uncertain nature of hazard events and response of road network components, a probabilistic framework is proposed to evaluate road accessibility by systematically considering the effects of: (i) multi-hazards that are cascading; and (ii) damage of various components of the network. The method tracks the uncertainty in the hazard modelling to the fragility of the road assets through a Monte Carlo simulation that creates thousands of possible road damage realizations. In each realization, the road accessibility is calculated, and accessibility probability maps for post-event response are generated from that. The method has been demonstrated for the road infrastructure of Napier City, New Zealand for a Mw8.4 Hikurangi Subduction interface earthquake. The road accessibility maps are useful resources for local authorities for resilience planning purposes. The study also presents the benefits of a few resilience intervention options in improving the accessibility of affected suburbs in the study region.

Conceptualizing State Voluntary Aid Organizations in Disaster (SVOAD) effectiveness

AbstractVoluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOADs) exist at the national, state, regional, and local levels as a platform for sharing information and supporting coordination among nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) that support disaster response and recovery efforts in the United States. These entities are described as important in disaster response and recovery policy and plans and in disaster scholarship. Yet, virtually no research has explicitly examined these entities at any level. This research began to address this gap in the literature by exploring what State VOAD (SVOAD) effectiveness meant to current and past SVOAD chairs through semi‐structured interviews. A grounded theory approach was used to analyze data gathered. The result of this analysis is a grounded definition of SVOAD effectiveness and identification of its dimensions. This manuscript presents the definition and the evidence that supports it and discusses how this information may be applied to support practice and future research.

Mental health and associated risk factors of Puerto Rico Post-Hurricane María.

Mental health disorders have an increased prevalence in communities that experienced devastating natural disasters. Maria, a category 5 hurricane, struck Puerto Rico on September 20, 2017, weakening the island's power grid, destroying buildings and homes, and limiting access to water, food, and health care services. This study characterized sociodemographic and behavioral variables and their association with mental health outcomes in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. A sample of 998 Puerto Ricans affected by Hurricane Maria was surveyed between December 2017 and September 2018. Participants completed a 5-tool questionnaire: Post-Hurricane Distress Scale, Kessler K6, Patient Health Questionnaire 9, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) 7, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder checklist for DSM-V. The associations of sociodemographic variables and risk factors with mental health disorder risk outcomes were analyzed using logistic regression analysis. Most respondents reported experiencing hurricane-related stressors. Urban respondents reported a higher incidence of exposure to stressors when compared to rural respondents. Low income (OR = 3.66; 95% CI = 1.34-11.400; p < 0.05) and level of education (OR = 4.38; 95% CI = 1.20-15.800; p < 0.05) were associated with increased risk for severe mental illness (SMI), while being employed was correlated with lower risk for GAD (OR = 0.48; 95% CI = 0.275-0.811; p < 0.01) and lower risk for SIM (OR = 0.68; 95% CI = 0.483-0.952; p < 0.05). Abuse of prescribed narcotics was associated with an increased risk for depression (OR = 2.94; 95% CI = 1.101-7.721; p < 0.05), while illicit drug use was associated with increased risk for GAD (OR = 6.56; 95% CI = 1.414-39.54; p < 0.05). Findings underline the necessity for implementing a post-natural disaster response plan to address mental health with community-based social interventions.

Contribution of Accessibility to Urban Resilience and Evacuation Planning Using Spatial Analysis.

Cities evolve and change with economic development and population growth, and urban planning laws in Taiwan have regulations that should be comprehensively reviewed every six years. Most current government policies aim to add new disaster prevention shelters or rescue stations. An economical way to improve the disaster prevention capabilities of urban planning is through examining or reviewing spatial structures and disaster prevention plans from the perspective of citizens or residents. The UN Office of Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) launched the Making Cities Resilient Campaign policy to enhance disaster-resistant and sustainable urban environments through integrated disaster mitigation, reduction, response, and evacuation plans. This study used space syntax to ascertain evacuation route features using geometric distance analysis. There was 31.61% efficiency in relation to accessible roads on a comprehensive map. We could clearly see that since the areas in the first quadrant were relatively close to accessible roads, and there was an area that was not connected to the existing evacuation channels. The increased number of channels was more accessible and extensive. Such suggestions are helpful for government departments to prepare for disaster management. The spatial characteristics of the physical environment are explained by the accessibility and efficiency of axial maps and visibility analyzed by space syntax. Our findings reveal that space syntax is an important application when examining evacuation maps.

Incidence management system of the healthcare institutions for disaster management in Sri Lanka

BackgroundIncident management systems and disaster planning processes facilitate maximal use of available resources. Evaluation of the Incident Command System (ICS) is one of the top five key areas of research priority in the field of surge. The study was aimed at assessing the disaster preparedness and ICS of the public healthcare institutions for the disaster management in a disaster-prone district of Sri Lanka.MethodsA descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among all public sector healthcare institutions (n = 74), including curative-healthcare institutions (n = 46) which have inward-care facilities for patient care and preventive healthcare institutions (n = 28) in Kurunegala district, Sri Lanka from May–September 2019 using a validated interviewer administered questionnaire which was based on ‘CO-S-TR Model’ for ICS assessment including ‘Clear need for increased capacity (≤25%), Basic level (26 – 50%), Moderate level (51 – 75%) and High level (>75%)’.ResultsFocal points for disaster management were nominated by the majority of the curative sector (n = 33; 76.7%) and preventive sector (n = 19; 73.1%) healthcare institutions. A written disaster preparedness and response plans were available in 72% (n= 31) curative sector and 76% (n= 19) preventive sector institutions. The higher proportion of the curative sector institutions had moderate level capacity in the area of providing treatment, and basic level capacities were in the areas of ‘staff mobilization, coordination of activities, supplying of special needs, triage of cases and transportation’. There is a clear need for improvement in the areas of communication commanding, management of controlling the incidence and tracking of the cases in the curative sector. The majority of the preventive sector institutions had moderate level capacity in commanding, control, coordination and tracking of cases. The basic level capacity in the areas of staff mobilization, stuff management and triage of cases. There is a clear need for improvement in the areas of communication in preventive sector. Of the public sector healthcare institutions, the higher proportion of the preventive sector (n = 20; 76.9%) and curative sector (n = 29; 67.4%) had basic level overall surge capacity of ICS for disaster management.ConclusionCoordination, communication, commanding, management of controlling the incidence and tracking of cases following outbreaks need to be improved and capacity development programmes could implement to develop the preparedness for future disasters.

Climate Change and the Urgent Need to Prepare Persons With Multiple Sclerosis for Extreme Hurricanes.

Climate change is contributing to increasingly hazardous tropical cyclones that endanger persons living in susceptible coastal and island communities. People living with chronic illness, including multiple sclerosis (MS), face unique challenges and vulnerabilities when exposed to hurricane hazards. Disaster and emergency preparedness requires a customized approach that considers the necessary adaptations to accommodate the mobility, self-care, sensory, cognitive, and communication impairments of persons living with MS. Related considerations include the potential for worsening neurologic signs and symptoms during and after a catastrophic storm. The impact of emotional and financial stresses, as well as disruptions in health care delivery, on this population are also key concerns. This paper addresses the challenges faced by individuals with MS in advance of, during, and in the aftermath of extreme storms. We propose new guidelines on how health care professionals can assist persons with MS when creating tailored disaster readiness and response plans.