Hazard Preparedness Research Articles

Special Issue on NIED Frontier Research on Science and Technology for Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience 2024

We are pleased to publish this special issue, dedicated to the NIED Frontier Research on Science and Technology for Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience 2024. The fifth NIED mid-/long-term plan period began in 2023, and this issue includes the first results of six papers, two reviews, one survey report, one note, and one material. Recently, violent natural disasters have triggered the development of effective countermeasures. Akita, Yamaguchi et al., and Hirashima et al. dealt with climate hazards such as heavy rainfall, snow, and ice disasters. Yamazaki-Honda reported the progress and challenges of disaster reduction and climate change adaptation using DRR strategies. Yadab et al., Akita, and Naito et al. reported data analysis and suggestions to evaluate seismic and volcanic hazards. Nagata et al. proposed the ICT tool “YOU@RISK” to educate regarding volcanic disaster risks. Sato et al. emphasized the importance and effectiveness of information technology. Kimura et al. emphasized preparedness and elaborated on measures to improve preparedness for all natural hazards. These new outcomes will promote the development of a sustainable society against these hazards and will be flagships to proceed with NIED research projects.

A methodology for assessing multiple hazards applied to Sweden

Despite extensive efforts through various international initiatives to reduce global warming, it has been determined that human induced climate change is here, that the present scale of disruption of the climate is unprecedented and will continue. Increasing weather volatility can be expected, which will most likely increase exposure to weather related hazards, e.g. wildfires, flooding. The aim of this paper is to present an index-based multi-hazard risk assessment method to assess wildfires and flooding hazard for two municipalities within Sweden. The method is designed to be used by the Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) for planning purposes and can be modified to take the local FRS’s capabilities and local conditions into account, thereby improving hazard preparedness at a local level. The analysis presented indicates that, while the frequency of multi-hazard overlap from wildfires and flooding is greatest in more northern parts of Sweden, the method provides important information even when applied to areas with limited overlap. A variation of the hazard assessment using a box kernel sliding window was studied to investigate the sensitivity of the model for rapid variations of an individual hazard level. Given that resource needs will typically spread over several days for large scale natural hazards, the box kernel approach is valuable in helping to identify a span of days when resources associated with incident response might be needed. In the future, the model should be expanded to include additional single hazards, the application to additional municipalities and extension to FRS planning exercises for natural hazards.

The fire hazard preparedness of special needs schools in the North West Province, South Africa

Fire disaster preparedness has been reported as critical in schools, especially for schools that have learners with special needs. This study, therefore, through a quantitative research approach, collected data from 88 participants across nine special needs schools (SNS) in the North West Province of South Africa to assess the fire preparedness of these schools. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. The study applied descriptive and inferential statistics using R Statistical Software package to analyse questions that gauged the fire preparedness of the sampled schools. Four generalised linear and one ordinal regression models were applied to the data and found statistically significant differences for some predictors across the four applied GLMs. Significant results were found for the school fire safety management model applied to the Disaster Preparedness Strategy framework (χ2 = 206.7; p = 0.01; R2 = 90.5%). However, a significant difference was only found in the question of early warning systems across the eight predictor variables for the framework.Contribution: The maintenance and recordkeeping model showed significant results in terms of record maintenance and the frequency of fire safety equipment inspections. While compliance with specific fire safety regulations is essential, broader engagement and continuous improvement in early warning systems are necessary for a more resilient disaster preparedness strategy. This study addresses a critical gap in understanding and improving fire hazard preparedness in these schools. The authors therefore recommend intervention from the authorities to assist these schools to prepare for fires.

THE POPULATION OF MILA FACING THE EARTHQUAKE OF AUGUST 07, 2020

The surge in urbanization within regions vulnerable to seismic activity poses a significant escalation in seismic risks. Effective mitigation strategies, reliant on improved architectural practices and behavioral adaptations, are imperative to curtail the toll of seismic events. Seismic vulnerability, intricately intertwined with seismic hazard, building conditions, and populace preparedness, underscores the need for comprehensive risk assessment. Although studies elucidating seismic risk knowledge and behaviors are scant in Algeria, they are more prevalent in Mediterranean regions. This paper delves into the examination of risk culture, discerning both direct and indirect causative factors behind the seismic disaster that befell Mila on August 7, 2020.Employing a research methodology that integrates the method Did You Feel It (DYFI USGS ) with a survey model used in Beirut, Lebanon.The findings offer notable insights for two principal reasons. Firstly, local perceptions of the seismic event's severity surpassed estimates by the US Geological Survey (USGS). Secondly, despite the relatively minor magnitude of seismic effects in the El Kherba neighborhood, the populace displayed inadequate preparedness for future earthquakes. Additionally, site-specific factors exerted substantial influence on crisis outcomes. In this context, the preparedness of Algerian society for seismic risks depends on understanding the phenomenon, recognizing associated hazards, and identifying available resources. Contribution: this study serves as a pivotal resource for fostering proactive local population preparedness and mitigating natural risks. Furthermore, it seeks to augment the efficacy of policies aimed at managing natural disaster risks in Algeria.

Spatio-Temporal Monitoring and Risk Mapping of Glacial Lake Outburst Flood in Hunza Valley, Pakistan

Glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) disasters are serious and potentially increase huge risks to livelihoods and infrastructure in the mountain regions of the world. The northern highland regions of Pakistan are home to some of the biggest alpine glaciers. In this investigation, the Hunza Valley of Pakistan has undergone remote sensing-based risk assessment for Glacial Lake Outburst Floods. Borith and Passu Lakes were chosen to identify flood risk in the downstream areas. For such, Landsat images were used from 1990-2020. Different spectral indices such as the Normalized Difference Snow Index (NDSI), Normalized Difference Glacier Index (NDGI) and Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) were applied to evaluate snow cover changes. Furthermore, these Lakes were digitized to evaluate and check the total increase in Lake Areas. Also, built-up areas close to lakes were digitized to identify total risk. The Land Surface Temperature (LST), NDSI, NDGI, NDWI, Digital Elevation Model (DEM) and Slope variables were given weights using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method. In the analysis of flood risk mapping, maximum weight was assigned to Land Surface Temperature, and minimum weight was assigned to the slope. The result revealed that the settlements located in the Ghulkin, Gulmit, Husseini, Passu, Zarabad, and Khorramabad are at moderate risk while settlements located near Hunza River such as Karimabad, Khanna Abad, and Aliabad are at high risk. The outcome also showed that Borith Lake's area expanded, going from 0.059 km2 in 1985 to 0.074 km2 in 2020 and Passu Lake's area also grew, going from 0.074 km2 in 2005 to 0.077 km2 in 2020. In last, Buffer analysis was performed to identify areas that are likely to be affected by the flood. The result of the study can help carry out a downstream risk assessment and better preparedness for future flood hazards.

The role of heterogeneous stress in earthquake cycle models of the Hikurangi-Kermadec subduction zone

Summary Seismic and tsunami hazard modelling and preparedness are challenged by uncertainties in the earthquake source process. Important parameters such as the recurrence interval of earthquakes of a given magnitude at a particular location, the probability of multi-fault rupture, earthquake clustering, rupture directivity and slip distribution are often poorly constrained. Physics-based earthquake simulators, such as RSQSim, offer a means of probing uncertainties in these parameters by generating long-term catalogues of earthquake ruptures on a system of known faults. The fault initial stress state in these simulations is typically prescribed as a single uniform value, which can promote characteristic earthquake behaviours and reduce variability in modelled events. Here, we test the role of spatial heterogeneity in the distribution of the initial stresses and frictional properties on earthquake cycle simulations. We focus on the Hikurangi-Kermadec subduction zone, which may produce Mw > 9.0 earthquakes and likely poses a major hazard and risk to Aotearoa New Zealand. We explore RSQSim simulations of Hikurangi-Kermadec subduction earthquake cycles in which we vary the rate and state coefficients (a and b). The results are compared with the magnitude-frequency distribution (MFD) of the instrumental earthquake catalogue and with empirical slip scaling laws from global earthquakes. Our results suggest stress heterogeneity produces more realistic and less characteristic synthetic catalogues, making them particularly well suited for hazard and risk assessment. We further find that the initial stress effects are dominated by the initial effective normal stresses, since the normal stresses evolve more slowly than the shear stresses. A heterogeneous stress model with a constant pore-fluid pressure ratio and a constant state coefficient (b) of 0.003 produces the best fit to MFDs and empirical scaling laws, while the model with variable frictional properties produces the best fit to earthquake depth distribution and empirical scaling laws. This model is our preferred initial stress state and frictional property settings for earthquake modelling of the Hikurangi-Kermadec subduction interface. Introducing heterogeneity of other parameters within RSQSim (e.g. friction coefficient, reference slip rate, characteristic distance, initial state variable, etc) could further improve the applicability of the synthetic earthquake catalogues to seismic hazard problems and form the focus of future research.

Community preparedness for natural hazards in two Chilean coastal cities

Chile is a country with high exposure to earthquakes and tsunamis. However, cities present different levels of community preparedness. Understanding the decision-making process for adopting preparedness measures is essential to motivating community participation while considering the local needs of each city. Considering the Protective Action Decision Model (PADM) to understand community preparedness, this study explores the role of risk perception, risk awareness, and trust in authorities in community preparedness in two coastal cities in Chile. A sample of 1093 inhabitants of two coastal cities, Valparaíso and Concepción, participated in the study. The results indicate significant differences between coastal cities' preparedness levels and their determinants, particularly risk perception and awareness. Despite these differences, our results show that trust in authorities is related to Chile's community preparedness levels in both locations.

Climate Disaster and Cognitive Ability: Evidence From Wildfire.

We investigate the impact of wildfire disasters on cognitive health (i.e., thinking and language skills) in individuals aged 10years and older using 2014 and 2018 wildfire and cognitive ability survey data from China. We distinguished wildfires in each county at different wind directions each day by exogenous wind direction changes, and analyzed the effects of wildfires on cognitive abilities through upwind and non-upwind wildfires. Our analysis shows that for every 10-unit increase in upwind wildfires compared to non-upwind wildfires, respondents' scores on word and math tests decrease by 0.235 and 0.236 standard deviations, respectively. Furthermore, we find that the impact of wildfire on cognitive ability is more pronounced in younger individuals, and those with lower defensive expenditures experience more severe impacts. Additionally, wildfires negatively affect individuals' cognitive abilities by generating air pollution. Wildfires significantly reduce individuals' cognitive abilities. Two recommendations are as follows: 1) governments should follow the principle of green development, introduce relevant regulations, and increase investment in adaptive technologies. 2) Individuals should raise awareness of climate hazards preparedness and strengthen defensive protection.

Hydrometeorological controls of and social response to the 22 October 2019 catastrophic flash flood in Catalonia, north-eastern Spain

Abstract. On 22 October 2019, the Francolí River basin in Catalonia, north-eastern Spain, experienced a heavy precipitation event that resulted in a catastrophic flash flood, causing six fatalities. Few studies comprehensively address both the physical and human dimensions and their interrelations during extreme flash flooding. This research takes a step forward towards filling this gap in knowledge by examining the alignment among all these factors. The hydrometeorological factors are investigated using the new Triangle-based Regional Atmospheric Model, radar-derived precipitation estimates, post-flood field and gauge observations, and the Kinematic Local Excess Model. The social dimension is assessed by examining the relationship between catchment dynamics and warning response times and by quantifying human behaviour during the course of the flash flood through a post-event citizen science campaign. Results reveal that a persistent south-easterly airflow brought low-level moisture and established convective instability in the region, while local orography was instrumental to triggering deep moist convection. A convective train promoted intense, copious, and prolonged precipitation over the north-western catchment headwaters. Basin response was significantly modulated by the very dry initial soil moisture conditions. After the long-lasting rainfall, an acute burst of precipitation resulted in extreme flash flooding. Fast and abrupt increases in streamflow affect small spatial scales and leave limited time for the effective implementation of protective measures. The institutional organization–protection–prevention cycle unfolded at the spatial and temporal scales typically dominated by the meteorological rather than hydrological scales. Although the citizen science campaign reveals the effectiveness of the warnings in reaching the population living in the most affected areas, a significant proportion of the respondents expressed a lack of adequate information or were unfamiliar with the intended meaning. In addition, a majority of the interviewees did not perceive any significant threat to life or property. In view of these results, this study identifies potential areas for improving social preparedness for similar natural hazards in the future.

GIS-Based Integrated Multi-Hazard Vulnerability Assessment in Makedonska Kamenica Municipality, North Macedonia

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of natural hazard susceptibility in the Makedonska Kamenica municipality of North Macedonia, encompassing erosion assessment, landslides, flash floods, and forest fire vulnerability. Employing advanced GIS and remote sensing (RS) methodologies, hazard models were meticulously developed and integrated to discern areas facing concurrent vulnerabilities. Findings unveil substantial vulnerabilities prevalent across the area, notably along steep terrain gradients, river valleys, and deforested landscapes. Erosion assessment reveals elevated rates, with a mean erosion coefficient (Z) of 0.61 and an annual erosion production of 182,712.9 m3, equivalent to a specific erosion rate of 961.6 m3/km2/year. Landslide susceptibility analysis identifies 31.8% of the municipality exhibiting a very high probability of landslides, while flash flood susceptibility models depict 3.3% of the area prone to very high flash flood potential. Forest fire susceptibility mapping emphasizes slightly less than one-third of the municipality’s forested area is highly or very highly susceptible to fires. Integration of these hazard models elucidates multi-hazard zones, revealing that 11.0% of the municipality’s territory faces concurrent vulnerabilities from excessive erosion, landslides, flash floods, and forest fires. These zones are predominantly located in upstream areas, valleys of river tributaries, and the estuary region. The identification of multi-hazard zones underscores the critical need for targeted preventive measures and robust land management strategies to mitigate potential disasters and safeguard both human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. Recommendations include the implementation of enhanced monitoring systems, validation methodologies, and community engagement initiatives to bolster hazard preparedness and response capabilities effectively.

The role of social capital in building community disaster resilience –empirical evidences from rural China

The paper investigates the role of social capital in hazard management in a case area which was overwhelmingly swept by flood in mid-2021. The interplay among social capital, hazard preparedness, response and recovery are explored by using structure equation modeling. Data were gathered from over 413 villages from August 2021 to September 2021, which is one month after the flood occurred. Research findings show that villagers in region with abundant social capital are more likely to contribute to hazard preparedness. We have also confirmed the positive role of social capital in restraining the pursuit of self-interests. Villagers are more willing to help others, and take care of vulnerable population when the hazard strikes. However, it is surprising to note that social capital fails to motivates residents to make preparedness plans for future risks. This retreat effect exists when big loss occurred and failed to meet local people's expectations. Overall, this study implies that the impact of social capital on hazard risk management is extremely complex and such complexity should not be attribute solely to divergent forms of network relationship. The above conclusion enables policy makers to pay attention to the psychological foundation of social capital while cultivating it.

Exploring building vibration dynamics in the wake of the Chi-Chi earthquake: implications for natural hazard preparedness

Exploring building vibration dynamics in the wake of the Chi-Chi earthquake: implications for natural hazard preparedness

Household preparedness for multi-natural hazards in coastal communities

Natural hazards have generated significant human and economic losses throughout history. This issue concerns the Pacific Ring of Fire (PRF) coastal cities. Chile is located on the PRF and is one of the countries with the highest seismic activity in the world. Consequently, this has resulted in a high seismic culture among the inhabitants but less knowledge and awareness of other threats, such as hydrometeorological events. Therefore, this study assessed household preparedness for multiple natural hazards in two coastal cities in Chile.To achieve this goal, we used the results of a survey conducted on a statistically representative sample of two of the main coastal cities in Chile: Valparaíso (n = 548) and Concepción (n = 585). The survey assessed household preparedness, participation in preparedness activities, and sociodemographic variables.The results showed that regardless of the study area, people perceive they are more prepared for earthquakes/tsunamis than fires and floods. Inhabitants from both cities rarely participate in preparedness activities, evidencing the importance of encouraging community members to become involved in activities to learn skills and strategies to cope with multiple hazards. Finally, the results show significant differences in preparedness based on sociodemographic characteristics; middle-aged adults declare participating more in disaster-related activities and being more prepared at home against earthquakes, tsunamis, and fires. The implications of these findings to prepare communities are discussed.

Climate Change in Rural Australia: Natural Hazard Preparedness and Recovery Needs of a Rural Community

Climate change has resulted in a worldwide increase in intensity and frequency of extreme weather events including bushfires. Previous research has shown that communities often do not engage in disaster preparedness, even when sufficient education and resources are provided. With the projected increase in natural disasters, preparedness is paramount, and more research is needed to gain an understanding into what impacts community preparedness in the face of climate change. This study investigated one rural Australian community’s preparedness for the 2019–2020 bushfires. Thirteen Australian adults who resided within a small rural community in New South Wales during the 2019–2020 bushfires participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Participants reported being unprepared for the 2019–2020 bushfires and that the community has started to prepare for future bushfires. However, they also described a belief in ‘climate cycles’ rather than climate change, limiting engagement in preparedness for future hazards. Participants also reported that they did not talk about the 2019–2020 bushfires, although described experiencing residual anxiety. Recommendations included support needed for rural communities to help with future preparedness efforts and mental health symptoms.

DEVELOPMENT OF A NEAR REAL-TIME WARNING AGRICULTURAL SYSTEM FOR DISASTER PREDICTION

The effects of disasters are not uniform across all individuals and communities. One’s preparedness and socioeconomic factors determine how much they will pay. Preparedness plays a crucial role in reducing the impact of disasters and aiding in their management and recovery. However, effectively preparing for unforeseen disasters becomes difficult when there is insufficient knowledge and expertise. Without accurate predictions and timely alerts about disasters, a community's level of readiness remains extremely low. Namibia has experienced various unavoidable climate-related dangers over time, making it vulnerable in the future. Inconsistencies in disseminating weather information and early disaster notifications are factors that obstruct the mitigation of climate-related disasters. Furthermore, disaster early warning system implementation has been slower in most African countries due to limited technical resources. Another notable challenge is upholding internationally standardized early warning systems in rural settings without overlooking the dynamics of the rural community, which leads to system ineffectiveness. Therefore, this study employed a mixed-methodology approach to gather qualitative and quantitative data from local farmers through the use of questionnaires to review the readiness to adopt early warning systems in northern Namibia, assess available technical resources, study the existing disaster mitigation practices in Namibia. Subsequently, historic and near real time weather data was collected from weather agencies, which ultimately designed and developed an early warning system to enhance resilience and preparedness for hazards and risks in farming communities by issuing comprehensive and timely alerts. The study confirmed the dire need for disaster prediction systems in Namibia, although it also highlighted pressing accessibility concerns that future researchers could study, especially under-resourced potential users.

Structural Analysis of Pre-hazard Preparedness Criteria in Iranian Large Cities

Studies have shown that Iranian large cities have experienced the most casualties and damages from natural hazards in 2010–2020 due to structural reasons. This research aims to extract, classify and determine the final model of drivers affecting the preparedness of these cities against natural hazards. The criteria were extracted by studying records and using the Delphi model’s opinions of 150 experts and city managers in 10 large cities. The combined output was 8 criteria and 70 sub-criteria that were assorted by considering the particular conditions of each study area. To obtain a multi-dimensional and comprehensive model, PROMETHEE and GAIA as structural methods have been used. PROMETHEE findings indicated that the most effective criteria for preparedness in large cities of Iran against natural hazards are institutional-managerial and social-citizenship. Also, based on GAIA VISUAL results, the comprehensive disaster preparedness plan and hazard mapping were identified as vital drivers and prerequisites of hazard preparedness. The output of GAIA has also shown that regarding the challenges of local government financing, the economic criteria (hazard-based investment, emergency budget and business continuity training) were the main facilitators and accelerators of the preparedness of Iranian large cities against natural hazards.

‘We knew a cyclone was imminent’: Hazard preparedness and disaster management efficiency nexus in coastal Bangladesh

Natural hazard-prone countries in the global south adopted an anticipatory-preparedness approach in disaster risk reduction (DRR) by shifting away from the response and rehabilitation approach. It was highly associated with the policy recommendations of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) framework. Nevertheless, challenges remained in managing disaster risks due to heterogeneous efficiency among disaster managers. This research examines the institutional effectiveness of the disaster management agency in cyclone-prone areas in southwestern coastal Bangladesh through network analysis. This research also explores institutional efficiency's impact on household preparedness in mitigating losses. We collected two distinct data sets from the local Union Disaster Management Committee (UDMC) and households in the same operational area of UDMC that were at risk of cyclonic disasters. To evaluate the effectiveness of local disaster management institutions, we conducted structured interviews with 336 representatives, spanning eight UDMCs in the cyclone-prone regions. To assess the impact of institutional performance (specifically, the UDMCs) on household disaster preparedness and loss mitigation, we collected data from 696 at-risk households. These households were located within the operational zones of the eight UDMCs, and the data was obtained using a structured questionnaire. Based on the application of social network analysis, our findings demonstrated that UDMC members were more active in the aftermath of disasters, as confirmed by three centrality measures - degree, eigenvector, and betweenness. Consequently, upon employing the Negative Binomial and Poisson regression models, we found a positive association between household engagement with UDMCs and participation in disaster preparedness training. This training appeared to enhance the knowledge and capacity of the respondents. The spill-over effects from disaster preparedness appeared to bolster the resilience of at-risk households, assist them in avoiding disaster-induced damages, and maintain consumption stability in the wake of disasters.

Overview of Circular Structures of Various Origins and Sizes in Egypt as a Contribution to Natural Hazard Data Mining Based on Remote Sensing Data and Geoinformation Systems (GIS) Analysis

This study is focused on the detection and typification of circular features with different sizes, origins, and states of erosion as well as on their surrounding tectonic setting, as well as on their impact on the environment and on the occurrence of natural hazards based on different satellite data of Egypt. Sentinel 2, Landsat and ASTER images and Sentinel 1- and ALOS L-band Phased Array Synthetic Aperture Radar (PALSAR)-radar data make it possible to identify larger ring structures as well as smaller circular features like maars or sinkholes in karst areas. Evaluations of the various satellite data contribute to the systematic and standardized inventory ring structures, most of which are related to magmatic intrusions. Such an inventory is a prerequisite for hazard preparedness and should be part of natural hazard data mining integrated into a Geo Information System (GIS). Mapping traces of volcanic activities (craters, maars, cones) is essential as a contribution to land use planning. By gathering the data and integrating the knowledge of the different ring structures in standardized GIS data base one of the many steps towards hazard preparedness and adapted land use planning can be achieved. Circular features are often buried by aeolian and fluvial sediments and become only visible on radar images or on Landsat or ASTER RGB images combining thermal bands. Larger ring structures have not only an influence on groundwater flow but also on geodynamic activity (earthquakes and related secondary effects).

The key role of risk perception in preparedness for oil pipeline accidents in urban areas: A sequential mediation analysis

Effective disaster risk reduction requires conducting research within communities that gave recognized natural or technological risks, to foster the development of more resilient societies. However, limited information is available regarding risk perception and preparedness for technological hazards in disaster-prone urban areas of South America. The aim of this study is to investigate the factors that influence public risk perception regarding the Trans-Ecuadorian Oil Pipeline System and its relationship with household preparedness for a potential accident in the Metropolitan District of Quito (Ecuador). We assess the link among knowledge, trust in authorities, risk perception, intention to prepare, and preparedness. Results from a sequential mediation analysis reveal that risk perception partially and positively mediates the relationship between knowledge and preparedness and acts as a negative full mediator between the latter and trust. These findings provide valuable information for future risk governance and communication strategies, aimed at enhancing risk perception and improving individual preparedness of individuals, as well as risk mitigation procedures.

HEALTH EQUITY, INTERSECTIONALITY, AND CLIMATE CHANGE: PUBLIC HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS FOR RESEARCH

Abstract With the rapidly growing aging population, we are faced with an increasingly diverse population of older people. In the 2023 MedPac Report, the Commission found that health disparities by race/ethnicity and income persist. Black Medicare beneficiaries and people with low-income subsidies are at higher risk of poor health outcomes (e.g., increase hospitalization, readmission, and emergency department visits) compared to non-Hispanic White, Asian, and higher income beneficiaries. In the coming years, the aging population will be faced with novel challenges that threaten individuals’ pursuit of health, well-being, and life. The focus of this presentation will be to discuss three emerging research areas including health disparities, intersectionality, and climate change. All are distinctly important and interconnected with health research more broadly. As a GSA summer policy intern, I researched legislation and synthesized literature related to these topics. For instance, I monitored and reviewed the Pandemic All Hazards Preparedness Act, Survival Aid for Emergencies Through Medicare Act, and MedPac recommendations to promote health equity. Additionally, I reviewed and contributed to GSA sign-on letters for congressional legislation. Within my own research focused on the joint associations of sleep and pain, this internship experience has provided new insights in line with my dissertation, which also seeks to uncover differences by age, sex, and race/ethnicity, as well as understand how contextual factors may influence the individual’s health. Looking forward, researchers may have vested interested in contributing to gaps in knowledge regarding health disparities and climate change.