OpinionAI and natural disasters: Today’s solution for tomorrow's challenges
Opinion
AI and natural disasters: Today’s solution for tomorrow's challenges
The recent wildfires in Los Angeles serve as a sad reminder of the devastating power of natural disasters, which have grown more frequent and intense in recent years. As AI-based solutions continue to mature, the time has come to apply them to addressing natural disasters.
The recent wildfires in Los Angeles serve as a sad reminder of the devastating power of natural disasters, which have grown more frequent and intense in recent years, posing significant challenges to nations, governments, and citizens worldwide. Events such as hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, and wildfires occur with greater frequency and intensity. This surge is primarily attributed to climate change, which has altered weather patterns, increasing the likelihood of extreme events. The situation is further exacerbated by urbanization and population density, making the various countries and communities increasingly vulnerable to such disasters. As the world faces these challenges, technology’s role in predicting, monitoring, and responding to these disasters has become more crucial than ever.
Disaster preparedness and resilience are key to mitigating the impact of natural disasters. Countries that invest in preparation and enhance their resilience are better equipped to respond effectively and recover swiftly when disaster strikes.
Technology can play a pivotal role in crisis and disaster management. Advanced data analysis, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and AI models are used to predict, monitor, and respond to natural disasters. These technologies, among others, provide early warning and real-time information, which may enable faster, more efficient, and more precise responses. One example could be the use of AI-based models that can analyze vast amounts of data to predict the likelihood of a disaster, while IoT devices such as sensors and drones can monitor environmental conditions and provide real-time updates during events. These technological advances help authorities and communities better prepare for and respond to disasters.
Several studies have demonstrated successful application of technology in disaster management. Japan’s earthquake early warning system, which utilizes a network of seismometers to detect seismic activity and issue alerts, is one such example. This system has significantly reduced the impact of earthquakes on communities by providing advance warning. Though the warning may only be seconds long, these precious moments are critical for safety measures. Similarly, the United States employs satellite imagery and data analysis to track and predict hurricane trajectories nationwide, issuing timely alerts and coordinating evacuations to save lives and reduce economic damage.
Consider, for example, the innovative AI-based solution developed by the Japanese corporation NTT, aimed at enhancing infrastructure resilience and facilitating rapid recovery from natural disasters. Unlike traditional methods that require specific field surveys, which often result in delayed responses and inadequate resource allocation following extreme events, this new development can predict damage regardless of the installation location, by analyzing data such as rainfall, altitude, soil strength and distance from rivers, using machine learning to process this information and generate actionable insights. The solution leverages machine learning to predict expected damage in areas affected by natural disasters, utilizing publicly available data including topography, weather, and other relevant information, as well as historical records spanning years and decades. For example, this technology can predict landslide damage to utility poles with 98% accuracy, using only rainfall data, soil height, and ground strength measurements.
The ability to predict potentially affected areas during natural disasters enables users of appropriate technology to implement preventive measures for sensitive (vulnerable) infrastructure, such as reinforcing pipes before anticipated seismic activity or preparing rehabilitation materials ahead of heavy rainfall. Additionally, the technology can be useful in managing communication infrastructure, power lines, utility poles, and bridges, as well as underground infrastructure like water and gas pipelines.
Looking ahead, continuous innovation and collaboration are essential for improving disaster response and resilience. Increased investment in technology and infrastructure is necessary to better prepare for future challenges. Governments, private companies, and communities must work together to develop and implement effective disaster management strategies.
Ultimately, the application of artificial intelligence in preparation for natural disasters represents an important step toward a safer and more resilient world. As development and implementation of advanced technologies continue, we hope to be able to better address the challenges posed by natural disasters and minimize their impact.
The growing frequency and intensity of natural disasters underscore the importance of preparedness and resilience. Technological solutions, including those developed by private companies, are crucial in reducing the impact of these events. By leveraging advanced technologies and fostering collaboration, we can build more resilient communities and better prepare for the challenges that lie ahead.
Asaf Green serves as Director of Business Development at NTT Israel.
