Interactive GIS for Disaster Mapping: Transforming Flood Response
Depending on their interrst and level of competence, the student can contribute to the project by approaching it from a technical or conceptual point of view.
This project is part of a 2 year EU MSCA project. Drawing inspiration from Japan's expertise in disaster preparedness and hazard mapping, this project reimagines the concept of a "subjective" hazard map, called Map@Me. Unlike traditional approaches focusing solely on objective risk predictions (e.g., flood levels, seismic hazards), this innovative perspective incorporates subjective risk perceptions, physical vulnerabilities, and the critical role of social infrastructure. Working together with the postdoctoral MSCA researcher, this MSc thesis project will focus on GIS mapping, data processing, and stakeholder interaction to map evacuation behaviour in case of a flood.
As part of this project, the student will contribute to developing the interactive disaster mapping tool Map@Me at the DISC and test it with stakeholders. The main task, then, will be the development of user-friendly interfaces and customized path-finding functions tailored to address specific vulnerabilities and needs. The other task will be facilitating workshops to engage with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and vulnerable groups. Also, the student will gain exposure to Japanese research methodologies.
Topic objectives and methodology
The project aims to advance a user-centered approach to flood preparedness by developing an interactive disaster mapping tool. Its overarching goals are:
- Enhancing hazard map literacy across Europe
- Raising awareness of local vulnerabilities through engaging and accessible mapping tools
- Contribute to the literature on the impact of disasters on local communities
Student profile:
- Enthusiasm for integrating GIS skills into social science applications.
- Keen interest in research areas such as Social Vulnerabilities, Disaster Studies, Cultural Studies, and Inclusivity.
- Interest in and aptitude for social science research.
Arce, R. S. C., Onuki, M., Esteban, M., & Shibayama, T. (2017). Risk awareness and intended tsunami evacuation behaviour of international tourists in Kamakura City, Japan. International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, 23, 178–192. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijdrr.2017.04.005
Hatori, T., Moriwaki, R., & Shingu, K. (2023). Disparity between evacuation intention and actual evacuation behavior during a heavy rain induced disaster event in Japan: Exploring the role of everyday awareness of disaster preparedness. International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, 92, 103729. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijdrr.2023.103729
Kerstholt, J., Duijnhoven, H., & Paton, D. (2017). Flooding in The Netherlands: How people’s interpretation of personal, social and institutional resources influence flooding preparedness. International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, 24, 52–57. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijdrr.2017.05.013
Kinateder, M., & Warren, W. H. (2016). Social Influence on Evacuation Behavior in Real and Virtual Environments. Frontiers in Robotics and AI, 3. https://doi.org/10.3389/frobt.2016.00043
The project addresses a problem that shows a degree of wickedness and has a societal impact in terms of the inclusion of minorities and individual vulnerabilities in flood preparedness.