GIS applications for natural hazards management in Latin America and the Caribbean

ABSTRACT

Geographic information systems (GIS) have been used successfully in Latin America and the Caribbean to assist development planners in natural hazards assessments. Individual and multiple hazards analysis have been combined with information on natural resources, population, and infraestructure using PC-based GIS technology to assess vulnerability of sectoral development projects as well as to support emergency preparedness and response activities. Applications have been at the national, regional, and local levels. The design of data bases, selection of GIS software and computer hardware, and introduction of spatial analysis into integrated development planning and emergency planning processes have been carried out in accordance with counterpart agency skill and experience levels. Participants in technical assistance, training, and technology transfer activities have been drawn from the development planning, emergency preparedness, and engineering / natural science research communities (AU)