This session will delve into the utilization of Earth Observation (EO) for disaster risk reduction (DRR), highlighting its critical role in understanding and managing multi-(hazard-)risks. EO provides data that significantly enhances our ability to monitor and reduce the impacts of disasters on both global and local scales. Central to this is the availability of a tremendous archive of EO data and an expanding spectrum of new sensors at increasing spatial and temporal resolution. The growing volume of EO data requires novel data assimilation techniques to maximise the benefit for multi-(hazard-)risk assessment.
Our primary objectives for this session are to curate a high-quality collection of presentations showcasing the state-of-the-art in EO applications for DRR, facilitate a broad exchange of knowledge, datasets, methods, models, and best practices among scientists. Effective disaster risk reduction and the planning of resilient communities necessitate a comprehensive evaluation of multiple hazards and their interactions. This holistic approach is endorsed by frameworks such as the UN Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR).
We welcome abstracts that showcase innovative applications of EO data for DRR, particularly those addressing multi-(hazard-)risks. We look for applications involving EO data both in data-rich and -poor regions used to investigate multiple hazards and their interactions, characterize exposed elements and their vulnerability levels and dynamics within the context of compound, cascading and complex risk conditions. Additionally, we seek contributions that identify future research directions and challenges in EO for DRR. Topics of interest include the use of EO to assess socioeconomic processes relevant to understanding and reducing vulnerabilities, particularly in humanitarian contexts; improving our understanding of multi-(hazard-)risks, such as compound heat and drought events; and enhancing insights into hydroclimatic extremes and geophysical hazards through EO data.