Technologies such as the internet of things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) can boost the countermeasures while offsetting the costs of human and infrastructure – making the system efficient.

FREMONT, CA: Natural disasters are profoundly destructive, with severe aftermaths lasting much longer. Though natural calamities are considered beyond human control, being prepared with countermeasures in advance is certainly within reach. Globally, around $94 trillion investment is required to match the population growth. A significant portion of the investment is vested in repairing the built environment. Such projects have long cycles with building efforts ranging in years. Thus it is essential to update the disaster management practices as per the latest advancements and technologies. Technologies such as the internet of things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) can offset the costs of human and infrastructures while making the system efficient.

Ground Level Preparedness

Devices embedded with IoT sensors and infrastructure assets enable the development planners to monitor data on bridges, road, buildings, energy grids, and public transportation, which can help in prioritizing preventive measures and repairs. Further, they can also be helpful in evaluating the constructions on whether they are safe enough according to some set standards.

Agencies can also leverage data sets with the help of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and ML and apply them to IoT devices to predict disaster impacts and identify staging areas and plan out evacuation routes.

IoT Led Responsive Measures

It is crucial to contain the disaster aftermaths in the first 72 hours. Responsive operations such as rescue or search operations and minimizing environmental risks like chemical contamination are also most effective within this time frame. AI and IoT can be invaluable assets while catering the immediate services. The technology can be used to assimilate and analyze data with the help of IoT infrastructure, drone and satellite imagery, AI-powered chatbots, and online heat maps.

Better Relief Measures

AI and ML can enable public safety officials to improve their strategies over time. AI can provide deeper insights into patterns to identify risk zones, future model requirements, development, and climate change. Government leaders can take a cue from the ideas to design policies that will nullify the impact of disasters.

It is not possible to avoid calamities, but smart incorporation of technologies can predict and minimize the impact of such disasters.