Natural Hazzards

Confronting Catastrophe
(Chapter 5 Recovery)
Bill Briles
GIS Applications
6-12-2010

There are many questions that GIS and its software can provide data about when a disaster occurs. Whether the disaster is natural or manmade. Two of the main questions asked at the time of a disaster are what happen, and how can I help.
GIS can be used to map the patterns of the destruction of the impact. This data is used to assist those responsible of providing aid, such as the Red Cross, FEMA, and local agencies determine where aid is needed most. The GIS mapping data is also used in the reconstruction of the impacted area.
GIS when provided sufficient data from sources being either existing or recently collected can make analysis of numerous subjects. For example this reading “Recovery” spoke how GIS can be used to determine where and how Government monies were spent. It was noted how government relief funds can be allocated and disbursed quickly when shown where the aid is needed and for whom.
The reading dealt with the impact of an earthquake in Northridge California. It discuss how GIS was used to assist persons in need find the location of the closest assistance center and finding emergency shelter. GIS maps were used to determine all types of damages that occur from the earthquake. GIS maps were also used to determine the finical impact of the damages and to clean up the impacts
GIS software is currently producing maps \ being used to analyze the impact of the recent Gulf Oil Spill. These impacts are not only on the Gulf waters themselves, but also the shore lands, wetlands, islands, and marshes along the Gulf Coast.
GIS has been used to show the closing of the Gulf Waters closed to fishing. This has impacted the fishing industry of the Gulf States. All one needs to do is watch the news reports of the oil spill on television to the see the use of GIS. The majority of their map exhibits showing various types of impacts have been prepared using GIS techniques.

Attached is a GIS map from the internet showing recent impacts of the oil spill.