Assessments & Scenarios
People have a hard time visualizing how a major threat could become a disaster that will affect them and their family, in specific ways, for months and years. Local leaders are often overwhelmed by the scale of the problem, or in some cases are not aware of it.
That’s why we develop disaster scenarios that personalize the impacts. That’s why we assess the specific vulnerabilities of local buildings and infrastructure. Our process engages diverse voices along with local and international experts. The results make complex problems approachable and provide a compelling basis for local decisions about growth, policy, and action.
Projects
Safety Measures for Landsliding in Kerala
India
Investigations of still dangerous slopes in Idukki, where 2018 landslides damaged thousands of homes. Partnered with Kerala University, Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA), local officials.
Disaster Scenarios for Risk-Informed Planning
Far and mid-west Nepal
Scenarios of a plausible earthquake quantify impacts, including more than 50% of schools damaged, and guide communities to reduce extreme risk before a disaster.
Seismic Resilience Evaluations
Bhutan
Engineers gained skills to assess structural vulnerability of Bhutan’s schools and health facilities, so that the government could evaluate post-earthquake safety of buildings.
Vertical Evacuation Structures for Tsunamis
Padang, Indonesia
Studied the feasibility of vertical evacuation solutions in Padang for safety during tsunamis. This could save lives in coastal cities where high ground does not exist or people do not have time to evacuate.
Earthquake Safety of the Tibetan Community
Dharamshala, India
An effort to develop seismic strengthening and protect contents for a key building, raise awareness, and prepare schools in the city that is home to the Tibetan government-in-exile
“Scenarios depict how a plausible event could cause certain losses, and how proactive changes would lead to safer outcomes. We typically include stories and local voices to personalize our science-based findings.”
Janise Rodgers, PhD.
GeoHazards International
Blog
“I admire GHI because no one else is doing the independent, objective work they're doing. They're not constrained by bureaucracy or politics — so they can offer expertise, provide access to a network, bring resources together — and do all those things with integrity.”
Former Senior Regional Advisor, Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance
