Improve Disaster Management Research Articles

CONTEMPORARY CHALLENGES IN CIVIL PROTECTION AND DEFENSE

The addressed problem is the need to enhance public policies and regulations in disaster management in Brazil, due to the increasing frequency and severity of these events. The hypothesis posits that integrating public policies with emerging technologies and community participation can significantly improve disaster management. The methodology involves a literature review of existing legislation, case study analysis, and the implementation of real-time hydrometeorological monitoring systems. Key results indicate that, despite advancements in prevention and mitigation policies, significant gaps remain in inter-institutional coordination and practical application of regulations. The main conclusion is that effective integration of public policies and emerging technologies is essential for risk reduction and the effective protection of vulnerable communities.

The 2004 Tsunami Impact on Andaman & Nicobar Islands: Consequences and Future Way Forward

The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, caused by a powerful undersea earthquake off the coast of Sumatra, resulted in unprecedented destruction across several coastal regions. The Andaman & Nicobar Islands, located near the epicenter, suffered significant loss of life, displacement, and environmental degradation. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the tsunami’s impact on the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, detailing the immediate effects, long-term consequences, and rehabilitation efforts. The paper also explores the economic, social, and psychological ramifications of the disaster, particularly on indigenous communities. Looking ahead, it emphasizes the importance of sustainable development, community-based disaster preparedness, and ecosystem restoration to build resilience in the region. The proposed way forward focuses on developing infrastructure that is disaster-resilient, improving disaster management systems, and empowering indigenous communities in rehabilitation efforts to ensure long-term recovery and resilience.

Strategic approaches in disaster management: Analyzing the roles of public health professionals from emergency response to post-disaster recovery

Disaster management presents a global challenge requiring the coordinated efforts of various sectors, especially public health professionals. The COVID-19 pandemic, declared by WHO in March 2020, marked a paradigm shift in disaster management and public health responses. This study examines the role of public health professionals during different disaster management phases, with a focus on Indonesia and global examples. Findings from Siti Marlina et al. (2022) and O. Olu (2017) highlight the critical role of community health centers and resilient health systems. The research also explores the Lombok earthquake response (Xu et al., 2018; Skinner, 2018; Kunugita et al., 2018; Brun & Pakenham-Walsh, 2018) and the broader implications of disaster management trends in Spain (Arcos González et al., 2023) and nuclear event concerns (Dallas, 2022). The study underscores the importance of mental health support (Peppou et al., 2021; Raesi et al., 2020) and offers recommendations for improving disaster management, including enhancing training, integrating public health into planning, and leveraging technology.

The movement pattern changes of population following a disaster: Example of the Aegean Sea earthquake of October 2020

Unexpected seismic events can have a significant impact on our daily lives. Examining post-disaster population movement patterns contributes to disaster response and recovery operations. While most studies analyze population movement or displacement data, only a few examine multi-level movement patterns and consider public transportation demand. This paper aims to analyze changes in movement patterns following a major earthquake that severely affected İzmir in Türkiye, mainly using movement data from the Data for Good platform of Meta. According to the findings, on the first day following the earthquake, those traveling within İzmir considered the areas least damaged to be safer, despite the higher seismic intensity. The timeframe alignment between aftershock activity and the number of people traveling within İzmir suggests the routine movement pattern within the city was regained as the aftershocks decreased day by day. Unlike intra-city travel routines, there was an increase in the number of people moving to summer houses, located far from the center of İzmir. By November 2, 2020, three days after the earthquake, intra-city movements reached a new normal, as confirmed by public transportation use. However, intra-city travel patterns were impacted for approximately one month. This study reveals key findings from the evaluation of post-earthquake movements to improve disaster management decision making and aid crisis response and recovery operations.

Impact of information provision on tsunami evacuation behavior of residents and international tourists in Japan

Effective disaster management can help mitigate both human and financial damage. However, the absence of appropriate disaster preparedness and management efforts can increase the vulnerability of international tourists to natural disasters. International tourists differ from residents and local tourists in various ways, including limited knowledge of disasters and disaster responses, use of different languages, limited access to signs, and shelter locations and evacuation routes. This study developed an agent-based evacuation model to determine the differences in evacuation behaviors among international tourists, residents, and local tourists during a tsunami. Further, it clarified the impact of both soft and hard countermeasures such as information provision and shelter capacity expansion. Our case study was conducted in the Minato Bay area in Osaka, Japan. The simulation results revealed disparities in the evacuation behaviors between international tourists and residents in the arrival times at shelters. The enhanced sign accessibility and provision of signs in multiple languages significantly reduced the arrival time of international tourists at shelters. Consequently, it is necessary to improve disaster management plans that ensure information provision in multiple languages and the establishment of temporary shelters near tourism spots to support international tourists during disaster evacuation.

Analyzing the Challenges of Cross-Border Disaster Response and Management: A European Perspective

This study investigates the challenges of cross-border disaster response and management in Europe, with a focus on legal and administrative barriers, cultural and linguistic differences, and existing frameworks and protocols. It seeks to understand their impact on the effectiveness of disaster management and identify areas for improvement. A quantitative approach was employed using a descriptive research design. A sample of 233 disaster management experts in Greece, representative of Europe, participated in the study. Data were collected through a well-designed questionnaire and analyzed using multiple regression analysis. The study found that in Europe, administrative and legislative obstacles seriously obstruct efficient cross-border catastrophe response and management. Although cultural and language differences have a statistically significant detrimental effect, hey equally have less of an effect overall. The current structures and procedures for cross-border disaster coordination positively impact the efficiency of catastrophe management. The study emphasizes how crucial it is to remove administrative and legal obstacles to improve cross-border catastrophe response throughout Europe. It implies that more efficient resource sharing systems, unified legal frameworks, and streamlined administrative processes are required. Furthermore, the impact of linguistic and cultural disparities can be lessened by fostering cultural awareness and multilingualism. To increase the efficacy of disaster management, the study recommends strengthening and standardize current frameworks and procedures. From a European perspective, this study offers insightful information about the difficulties involved in responding to cross-border disasters. It offers practitioners and policymakers evidence-based suggestions to improve coordination and response effectiveness, which will ultimately improve disaster management in Europe and beyond.

Bridging Gaps, Building Futures: How DIREKTION Innovates for Global Disaster Resilience

The DIREKTION project, funded under Horizon Europe, aims to revolutionize disaster resilience through advanced technology and collaboration. Addressing the challenges posed by climate change, infrastructure vulnerabilities, and dynamic population densities, it seeks a paradigm shift in emergency responses. By integrating innovative technologies with the practical needs of responders and policymakers, DIREKTION enhances cross-sectoral harmonization and fosters stakeholder communication. Early outputs include drafts of the DIREKTION Assessment and Screening Framework and D-SAT tool, establishing a foundation for future development. The project's presentation at ISCRAM invites valuable feedback and engagement, highlighting its commitment to improving disaster management practices and fostering a more resilient society.

Integrating geoenvironmental and socioenvironmental analyses for flood vulnerability assessment in the Kullu Valley, Himachal Pradesh, India

The escalating impacts of climate change necessitate a focused analysis of flood vulnerability in ecologically fragile and densely inhabited mountain areas, particularly in the Himalayan region. This study concentrates on the Kullu Valley within the Beas Basin, Himachal Pradesh, India, a locale characterized by its intricate terrain and dynamic climatic conditions. Employing an integrated approach of using satellite imagery, Geographic Information System (GIS), and field surveys, the research evaluates the region's topographical and hydrological attributes alongside land use patterns to discern flood vulnerabilities. Key findings from this study include, the identification of zones with elevated runoff potential, high-risk settlements, and vulnerable agricultural lands. The complex interplay of steep slopes and intricate stream networks exacerbates the susceptibility to flash floods in the region. The study's socio-environmental analysis resulted in the delineation of five zones, each exhibiting distinct adaptive capacities, exposures, and sensitivities. Particularly, Zones 5 and 4 emerged as highly vulnerable due to dense settlements and economic dependence on agriculture and tourism. This study suggests implementing a 100-m buffer zone along the river and monitoring the use of Common Property Resource (CPR) lands to mitigate flood risks. Our recommendations extend to enhancing emergency response protocols, improving disaster management team preparedness, improving communication and transport infrastructures, and ensuring medical facility accessibility. Overall, this research offers a comprehensive perspective on flood risk factors in mountainous landscapes, serving as a guide for policymakers and disaster management authorities in formulating resilient and sustainable flood mitigation strategies.

The disaster of the century, Kahramanmaras earthquake: A qualitative study on the experiences of the earthquake victims and search and rescue teams

This study aimed to explore the experiences of earthquake victims who experienced the Kahramanmaras earthquakes and individuals who actively served in search and rescue teams in the field. In this qualitative study, data were collected through semi-structured, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) forms from 47 earthquake victims living in various tent cities and 46 members of search and rescue teams in the Kahramanmaras and Hatay provinces. In-depth individual and focus group interviews were conducted using the maximum variation sampling method, which is a purposive sampling method, to identify the experiences of the participants. Data were analyzed using the content analysis method. The results revealed that search and rescue teams faced problems in coordination and transportation, communication, debris safety, and multidisciplinary reinforcement of their teams, especially during the intervention phase. Earthquake victims, on the other hand, were affected psychosocially and faced many problems such as access to the allocation of resources and aids and lack of information before, during, and after the earthquakes. In this context, these themes on the experiences of large-scale earthquakes that caused great psychosocial, economic, and social devastation from the perspectives of earthquake victims and search and rescue teams can contribute to the planning of early disaster prevention and response strategies for policymakers to improve disaster management at national and international levels.

Reappraisal of the 2012 magnitude (MW) 6.7 Negros Oriental (Philippines) earthquake intensity and ShakeMap generation by using ESI-2007 environmental effects

The macroseismic intensity of the February 6, 2012, Negros Oriental earthquake (MW 6.7), which affected the islands of Negros and Cebu, central Philippines, has been reassessed in this study using the Environmental Seismic Intensity Scale (ESI-2007). This earthquake caused a ∼75-km-long surface rupture along a previously unmapped fault and resulted in extensive landslides, localized liquefaction, lateral spreading, a tsunami, and widespread damage to infrastructure near the epicentral area. Considering the widespread earthquake environmental effects (EEEs), ESI-2007 intensities were evaluated for 324 locations covering an area of approximately 1000 km2 within the Negros and Cebu Islands. A systematic comparison was conducted between the ESI-2007 scale and the traditional intensity scales (PHIVOLCS earthquake intensity scale (PEIS) and Modified Mercalli Intensity scale (MM) along with the generation of an ESI-2007 shake map, which is solely based on site-specific ESI-2007 intensity values. According to the ESI-2007 scale, the epicentral intensity I0=X is assessed. This is two degrees higher than the intensity of the PEIS, and three degrees higher than the modified MM intensity provided by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The intensity difference may also be due to the lack of suitable observations of building damage data in this sparsely populated region of the Philippines. Comparison of the ShakeMap that was constructed using the ESI-2007 intensities with the PHIVOLCS and USGS ShakeMap suggests that the instrumental or structural damage-based intensity maps underestimate the seismic intensity for the 2012 Negros Oriental earthquake. The ESI-2007 ShakeMap presented in this work is pertinent for the assessment of future seismic risk associated with other earthquake generators in the vicinity of the islands of Negros and Cebu. It can be integrated with the PEIS or MM intensity scale to improve disaster management and planning, post-earthquake recovery efforts, and damage estimation.

Enhancing Disaster Management Preparedness Through Simulation.

Disaster management can be difficult to teach in the classroom, yet nurses must be prepared to respond to emergency situations and feel confident doing so. Educators developed a simulated learning activity-a mock disaster drill using live volunteers as patients and emergency medical technicians-to improve disaster management preparedness, confidence, and interdisciplinary teamwork among nursing students. This article details their strategy and experience with this project.

XR4DRAMA a knowledge-based system for disaster management and media planning

Abstract In the previous two decades, Knowledge Graphs (KGs) have evolved, inspiring developers to build ever-more context-related KGs. Because of this development, Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications can now access open domain-specific information in a format that is both semantically rich and machine comprehensible. In this article, we introduce the XR4DRAMA framework. The KG of the XR4DRAMA framework can represent data for media preparation and disaster management. More specifically, the KG of the XR4DRAMA framework can represent information about: (a) Observations and Events (e.g., data collection of biometric sensors, information in photos and text messages), (b) Spatio-temporal (e.g., highlighted locations and timestamps), (c) Mitigation and response plans in crisis (e.g., first responder teams). In addition, we provide a mechanism that allows Points of Interest (POI) to be created or updated based on videos, photos, and text messages sent by users. For improved disaster management and media coverage of a location, POI serve as markers to journalists and first responders. A task creation mechanism is also provided for the disaster management scenario with the XR4DRAMA framework, which indicates to first responders and citizens what tasks need to be performed in case of an emergency. Finally, the XR4DRAMA framework has a danger zone creation mechanism. Danger zones are regions in a map that are considered as dangerous for citizens and first responders during a disaster management scenario and are annotated by a severity score. The last two mechanisms are based on a Decision Support System (DSS).

Momentum Politik dalam Pembangunan Komitmen Penanggulangan Bencana di Daerah

Approaching 2024, Indonesia will experience a process or momentum of changing heads of state and regional chiefs. Politically, if there is a new head of state, it is possible that there will be several legal policy reforms in the implementation of development, as well as disaster management policies. In terms of disaster events, natural disasters that occur during the implementation of political momentum can threaten the loss of political rights, damage to voter lists, disruption of supporting infrastructure, relocation of polling places (TPS), obstruction of logistics procurement and distribution channels, as well as delays in changing government. Thus, as a mitigation measure for disaster management during political momentum, synergy between Ministries/Institutions and Regional Governments is needed in dealing with natural disasters so that they do not disrupt political, legal and national security stability. Political momentum through simultaneous General Elections (Pemilu) and Regional Chiefs Elections (Pilkada) must be seen as momentum to emphasize the commitment of regional leaders to improving disaster management services to the community as well as realizing Indonesia as a Center of Excellence in Sustainable Resilience. Disaster issues must be given attention, including including disaster issues in the vision and mission in the Pilkada campaign and become a commitment of the elected Regional Chiefs

Optimal Fusion of Multispectral Optical and SAR Images for Flood Inundation Mapping through Explainable Deep Learning

In the face of increasing flood risks intensified by climate change, accurate flood inundation mapping is pivotal for effective disaster management. This study introduces a novel explainable deep learning architecture designed to generate precise flood inundation maps from diverse satellite data sources. A comprehensive evaluation of the proposed model is conducted, comparing it with state-of-the-art models across various fusion configurations of Multispectral Optical and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images. The proposed model consistently outperforms other models across both Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 images, achieving an Intersection Over Union (IOU) of 0.5862 and 0.7031, respectively. Furthermore, analysis of the different fusion combinations reveals that the use of Sentinel-1 in combination with RGB, NIR, and SWIR achieves the highest IOU of 0.7053 and that the inclusion of the SWIR band has the greatest positive impact on the results. Gradient-weighted class activation mapping is employed to provide insights into its decision-making processes, enhancing transparency and interpretability. This research contributes significantly to the field of flood inundation mapping, offering an efficient model suitable for diverse applications. This study not only advances flood inundation mapping but also provides a valuable tool for improved understanding of deep learning decision-making in this area, ultimately contributing to improved disaster management strategies.

COMBINING YOLO V5 AND TRANSFER LEARNING FOR SMOKE-BASED WILDFIRE DETECTION IN BOREAL FORESTS

Abstract. Wildfires present severe threats to various aspects of ecosystems, human settlements, and the environment. Early detection plays a critical role in minimizing the destructive consequences of wildfires. This study introduces an innovative approach for smoke-based wildfire detection in Boreal forests by combining the YOLO V5 algorithm and transfer learning. YOLO V5 is renowned for its real-time performance and accuracy in object detection. Given the scarcity of labelled smoke images specific to wildfire scenes, transfer learning techniques are employed to address this limitation. Initially, the generalisability of smoke as an object is examined by utilising wildfire data collected from diverse environments for fine-tuning and testing purposes in Boreal forest scenarios. Subsequently, Boreal forest fire data is employed for training and fine-tuning to achieve high detection accuracy and explore benchmarks for effective local training data. This approach minimises extensive manual labelling efforts while enhancing the accuracy of smoke-based wildfire detection in Boreal forest environments. Experimental results validate the efficacy of the proposed approach. The combined YOLO V5 and transfer learning framework demonstrates a high detection accuracy, making it a promising solution for automated wildfire detection systems. Implementing this methodology can potentially enhance early detection and response to wildfires in Boreal forest regions, thereby contributing to improved disaster management and mitigation strategies.

Enhancing Disaster Triage Competencies through Simulation-Based Training: An Interventional Study among Undergraduate Nursing Students

This pre–post interventional study explores the effectiveness of simulation-based training in enhancing disaster nursing skills among nursing students at Taif University, Saudi Arabia. The training, which uses a realistic train accident simulation and involves a response team of healthcare professionals, aims to improve knowledge and performance in crisis management and triage during mass casualty incidents. The study’s necessity stems from the critical role nurses play in disaster response, requiring a comprehensive understanding of challenges, collaboration among stakeholders, and improved capabilities. A random sample of 101 nursing students voluntarily participated in the study, with the necessary approvals obtained. We measured their emergency management skills and knowledge using a detailed questionnaire (27 items) and conducted pretest and posttest evaluations. Data analysis was performed using SPSS. The results indicate the training’s effectiveness, as a significant portion of participants achieved high performance levels in the posttest, contrasting with a higher percentage of fail-level grades in the pretest. These findings underscore the potential to improve disaster management protocols and nursing professionals’ preparedness in Saudi Arabia. The study emphasizes the importance of comprehensive education in disaster nursing in enhancing emergency response and patient outcomes.

Enhancing public health resilience in urban disaster settings: A study protocol on civil-military coordination in Malaysia

In Malaysia, the increasing frequency and severity of disasters emphasize the urgent need for enhancing disaster management. Given their significant impact on public health and healthcare, effective disaster management becomes a top priority. This study focuses on urban disasters and aims to identify health needs, assess multi-sectorial response gaps, and propose civil-military coordination mechanisms. To achieve this, a qualitative single-case approach will be employed, involving document reviews, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions with representatives from key governmental agencies responsible for disaster management. The study will specifically concentrate on Kuala Lumpur, the densely populated and commercially active city. Thematic analysis will be used to systematize and verify the collected data, providing comprehensive insights into the current state of civil-military coordination in disaster response and management from stakeholders' perspectives. By examining their perceptions and experiences, the study will identify existing gaps and challenges in civil-military coordination. Ultimately, the findings will contribute to evidence-based policies and strategies aimed at improving disaster management coordination throughout Malaysia.

Practice of Game Development Project-Based Learning Classes for Improving Disaster Management

It is necessary to discuss from various angles how to make the younger generation, who will be responsible for future society, aware of disasters and how to cope with them. Therefore, we designed a project-based learning class, “Media Design Project III · IV”, in which students are asked to create a game to raise their awareness of disaster prevention. This class aims to improve disaster awareness, especially tsunami evacuation, and to improve abilities that students will need in the future, i.e., time management and problem-solving, especially after they begin work. It was found that the game can increase tsunami evaluation awareness. Therefore, the projects presented here might become a new method for education, especially disaster education and career education, with games focused on disasters potentially being a new tool for raising awareness about disasters.

Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Aquaculture Production and Profitability in Bangladesh: A Comprehensive Analysis

In March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic rapidly spread across Bangladesh, affecting various sectors, including aquaculture. However, there is a lack of evidence regarding the effects on aquaculture production and profitability in the country. The present study addresses this gap and investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic using a convenience questionnaire survey utilising face-to-face and telephonic interviews with 499 fish farmers from five prominent fish-culture regions (Satkhira, Khulna, Madaripur, Bhola, and Mymensingh) in Bangladesh from April to August 2020. The results show aquaculture production losses averaging 29.1 % during the pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period. Before the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak, the farmers reported a profit of USD3813 per hectare, which turned into a loss of USD2565.4 per hectare during the pandemic period. The standard multiple linear regression analysis indicated that large farms experienced a more significant impact on aquaculture production loss and economic loss during the pandemic period compared to small farms [β = 0.15, P = 0.029]. The causes for the production loss were identified by rank based quotient (RBQ), indicating that increased fish transportation costs and prices of seed and feed dominated during the lockdown. The lockdown and movement restrictions also reduced selling prices because of fewer buyers. The government provided financial support to the fish farmers, but only onethird (36 %) of the respondents received financial aid. The study suggests implementing medium and long-term measures, such as strengthening communication networks, digital marketing strategies and developing strategic planning initiatives to improve disaster management and resilience to mitigate the effects of the pandemic.

Building Disaster Resilient Tourism through Strengthening Disaster Management Strategies in Batu City

Indonesia has a high intensity of disaster events. The high incidence of disasters in Indonesia has had a detrimental impact on several sectors, one of which is the tourism sector. This study was conducted to find out actors who play a role in disaster management strategy and their relation to national defense. This study used QGIS software, MICMAC, and MACTOR for analysis. MICMAC analysis emphasizes factors or variables, and then MACTOR emphasizes actors. This research found that the institutional capacity between institutions in Batu City was good, but still needed to be improved. The role of actors in improving disaster management in tourism areas in Batu City is very crucial, especially BPBD and DLH as actors who influence other actors on strategy and disaster management in Batu City. The role of actors in disaster management through risk mapping, preparing emergency response plans, and involving the community in prevention efforts are important actions in disaster management. The success of these efforts will contribute to overall national security and stability. This condition led to the involvement of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) in emergency disaster response operations.