So, here we are again, folks—another October 13th, another International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction. Now, the buzz this year is “Fund Resilience, Not Disasters”, and let me tell you, it’s about time we start thinking ahead. Why spend big bucks on recovery when we could invest in dodging these curveballs altogether?
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by Kareff Rafisura, Sheryl Rose Reyes, Thanabordee Sakunarunphet, Natdanai Punsin, Emi Yati
Contents
a smarter approach to disaster risk
With advances in satellite imagery and artificial intelligence, we’re changing the game. Tools like SatGPT are stepping up to the plate, giving us a clearer picture of what could go wrong and where. It’s all about mapping hazards and knowing vulnerabilities.
satellite magic: say hello to satgpt
SatGPT is like the superhero of flood risk mapping. Born from a collaboration between the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) and some top regional teams, it’s the next-gen toolbox you need in a flood zone. Seriously, in resource-limited spots or those always bracing for the next flood, this thing’s a lifesaver.
regional moves and grooves
Let’s talk local. Over in the Philippines, the Philippine Space Agency’s PINAS is doing its part to make space data work for everyone. In Indonesia, AI is mapping floods around Jakarta, and SatGPT might just slide into the mix. Meanwhile, Thailand’s Check Nahm app is keeping folks updated on flood situations using everything from CCTVs to real-time warnings.
tech meets human needs
One more thing—leveraging tech is all about the people. At the end of the day, this isn’t just about cool gadgets and data. These maps, those algorithms—they’re about protecting communities. So, as we gear up with all these tech tools, we gotta keep our focus on the folks on the ground.
learn and apply
The University of Hong Kong has put its smarts to good use, tackling how flooding hits social classes differently. With AI and geospatial data, they show how socioeconomic vulnerabilities can make weather impacts worse. It’s a wake-up call for prioritizing resilience investments.
gearing up for the future
The Jakarta Ministerial Declaration emphasizes technology’s role in sustainable development. Countries are investing in training the next-gen public servants to turn geo-data into action with tools like SatGPT. It’s all about smarter, quicker decisions for disaster prep.
About the authors: Kareff Rafisura (Economic Affairs Officer, ESCAP), Sheryl Rose Reyes (Consultant, ESCAP), Thanabordee Sakunarunphet (Geo-Informatics Officer, Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency), Natdanai Punsin (Geo-Informatics Officer, Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency), Emi Yati (Researcher, National Research and Innovation Agency)
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