Improving disaster response efforts through data

The size and frequency of natural disasters is growing at an alarming pace. In 2016 earthquakes, wildfires and other natural events caused US$210bn in global economic losses, according to a UK-based insurance broker, Aon. The year 2017 may tally an even higher figure, as a series of floods, earthquakes and hurricanes struck various areas of the world.

Developing economies, especially those located closer to the equator, are expected to bear the greatest toll from extreme weather events. These countries are the most vulnerable and least equipped to withstand these types of events, as they have fewer resources to prevent damage and protect citizens who are at risk.

Data and analytics can support relief and response initiatives for communities in need. From the use of satellite images and crowd-sourced mapping tools to predict and help prepare for disasters, to on-the-ground reports from drone footage, emergency responders, governments and non-government organisations (NGOs) are adopting data analytics as a critical tool to strengthen early warning systems and aid relief efforts in the aftermath of a disastrous event.

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