Disaster management Archives - Page 2 of 19

Jan242025 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Drones Combat Bushfires Australia’s High-Tech Plan to Tame Flames Before They Rage

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Disasters, Tech

On a typical summer evening in Australia, a dry lightning storm rolls across parched bushland. With hot, windy conditions forecast for the next day, a single lightning strike could ignite a catastrophic blaze. But thanks to cutting-edge drone technology, such threats may soon be contained before they escalate. This innovative vision, outlined in the federal government's latest roadmap, leverages drones to detect and suppress bushfires early. Equipped with thermal detectors and cameras, drones can spot smouldering roots or smoke trails in remote areas, operating tirelessly through the night. Larger drones armed with fire retardants join the effort, slowing flames until human fire crews take over at dawn. The result? What could have become a devastating megablaze is contained to a few hec...

Jan222025 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Official Statistics Key to Climate Action Paris Agreement Reporting

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Environment

A new publication reveals how official statistics can play a pivotal role in supporting climate action, helping countries meet their obligations under the Paris Agreement. The guide outlines how National Statistical Offices (NSOs) can contribute to climate change mitigation, adaptation efforts, and ensuring a just transition while providing essential data to inform the public and measure financial flows related to climate policies. The report emphasizes that NSOs have a critical part to play in shaping climate action by providing robust data that addresses current gaps and anticipates future needs. It explains how statistical systems can align their work with the policy context to better serve governments, international organizations, and the wider public. One of the central themes o...

Jan202025 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Tragedy in Odisha Cement Plant Collapse Claims Three Lives

Breaking News, Disasters, Environment

A devastating accident in Odisha’s Sundergarh district has left three laborers dead following the collapse of an iron structure at a cement plant. After a grueling 36-hour rescue operation, authorities recovered the bodies of the missing workers from the debris, bringing the tragedy into sharp focus. The collapse occurred on Thursday evening at the captive power section of a cement plant in Rajgangpur. The victims, identified as Susanta Rout, Ranjit Bhol, and Dashrath Patra, were contractors working at the site when a coal hopper gave way, burying them under tons of debris. More than 60 workers who were present at the site during the accident were rescued promptly, thanks to the coordinated efforts of the fire service department, Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), and local ...

Jan162025 by Editor DeskNo Comments

DO NOT DRINK Notice in LA Wildfires Pose Dual Threat High Winds and Water Contamination Risks

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Disasters

As LA wildfires rage on, high winds are expected to worsen conditions, amplifying the destruction and raising new concerns about drinking water safety. Last week, Pasadena Water and Power issued its first-ever "Do Not Drink" notice to a third of its customers, citing the risk of toxic chemicals infiltrating the water supply after infrastructure damage. Although the advisory has since been lifted for most areas, the incident highlights the hidden dangers urban fires pose to water systems. Unlike wildfires in forests, urban fires wreak havoc on critical infrastructure. Andrew Whelton, a Purdue University professor, explains that ash, soot, and debris can enter water systems when pressure drops during a fire. Compounds released from burning synthetic materials are especially harmful, even ...

Jan142025 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Harris County’s Coordinated Response: Supporting Vulnerable Residents During Hurricane Beryl and the Derecho

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Disasters

In the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl and the May 2024 derecho, Harris County demonstrated the effectiveness of proactive planning and coordinated efforts to support vulnerable residents. These incidents caused extensive damage, widespread power outages, and significant challenges for the community. By leveraging the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR), the Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HCOHSEM) provided critical aid to those in need. What is STEAR? The State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR) was established to identify and assist residents with disabilities, medical needs, and other challenges during emergencies. Registered residents receive wellness checks, medical aid, and logistical support during disasters. Faci...

Jan72025 by Editor DeskNo Comments

9 Laborers Trapped in Assam Coal Mine Rescue Efforts Underway

Breaking News, Disasters, Environment

Nine laborers were reported trapped in a coal mine in the Umrangso region of Assam's Dima Hasao district on Monday. The incident occurred after water unexpectedly entered the mine, raising fears about their safety. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed the situation and said all efforts are being made to rescue the trapped workers. Chief Minister Sarma, sharing the names and details of the laborers on his X handle, expressed deep concern over the situation. He said that assistance from the army has been sought while rescue teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are en route to the site. "Distressing news from Umrangso, where laborers are trapped in a coal mine. The exact number and status are yet unknown. The D...

Nov282024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Cyclone Fengal Likely to Hit Tamil Nadu Puducherry Coast by November 30 Morning

Breaking News, Disasters

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that the deep depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal will intensify into Cyclone Fengal within 12 hours, as it moves northwestward. The system is expected to cross the northern Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coasts, between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram, on the morning of November 30, bringing heavy rainfall and gusty winds. Current Location and Forecast The IMD reported the depression is currently stationary near latitude 9.0°N and longitude 82.1°E, about: 100 km east-northeast of Trincomalee, Sri Lanka. 550 km south-southeast of Chennai. 370 km southeast of Karaikal. 470 km southeast of Puducherry. The system is expected to intensify into a cyclonic storm and move north-northwest, skirting Sri Lanka's coast. Upon lan...

Nov272024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Japan Innovates Disaster Preparedness with VR and Interactive Tools

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Disasters, Tech

The devastating torrential rains that struck western Japan in 2018 highlighted the need for improved disaster preparedness, especially in Hiroshima Prefecture, where many residents were caught off guard by mudslides and other natural disasters. In response, a range of innovative tools using virtual and augmented reality, as well as interactive games, have been developed to educate and protect communities. VR Brings Disaster Risks to Life in Hiroshima Hiroshima Prefecture, in partnership with Hiroshima University and Tokyo-based disaster prevention company Rikei Corp., has created VR-based materials to simulate natural disaster scenarios. These tools aim to raise awareness of the dangers posed by disasters such as mudslides and heavy rains. By immersing residents in realistic simulati...

Nov272024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Timor-Leste Fight Against Climate Disasters Blend of Technology and Community Action

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Disasters, Tech

Timor-Leste, a small island nation in Southeast Asia, is on the frontlines of the climate crisis, grappling with the devastating impacts of extreme weather. However, a combination of local knowledge, cutting-edge technology, and support from the United Nations is helping its communities better prepare for disasters. In April 2021, catastrophic flash floods swept through Timor-Leste, killing over 30 people and destroying 4,000 homes. Orlalan, a remote village of nearly 6,000 people, was among the worst-hit areas. With limited disaster preparedness, residents were caught off guard as landslides and floodwaters surged. Today, community leaders like Armandina Valentina are driving grassroots efforts to ensure their neighbors are better equipped for the next disaster. She tirelessly educa...

Nov252024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Japan and UNDP to Build 12 Evacuation Centers in Laos to Strengthen Disaster Resilience

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Disasters

Vientiane: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with support from the Government of Japan, is set to construct 12 evacuation centers in the provinces of Khammouane, Salavan, and Champasack over the next three years. This initiative, valued at approximately USD 3.8 million, aims to enhance disaster preparedness and safeguard vulnerable communities in Laos. At the signing ceremony, H.E. Mr. Koizumi Tsutomu, Ambassador of Japan to Laos, emphasized the broader goals of the project: "Through this project, we aim to enhance disaster resilience, not only by ensuring the safety of people during emergencies but also by fostering a culture of disaster awareness and preparedness in advance." The "Strengthening Disaster Response Capacity through the Improvement of Evacuation Shelt...