Remote Sensing for Disaster Response: A Rapid, Image-Based Perspective

In the midst of responding to a disaster, emergency managers typically lack actionable information. Remote sensing has the potential to help emergency managers streamline response and recovery by providing: (1) a backdrop of situational awareness—which can be invaluable for assessing likely impacts—and (2) a means to assess the distribution and magnitude of damage. Effective use of remote sensing requires careful selection, acquisition, analysis, and distribution of data and results. Although best practices are often gleaned through trial and error as an event unfolds, the integration of remote sensing techniques in the standard response protocols is far more effective when undertaken outside of response and recovery. This chapter provides practical examples and guidelines for emergency managers and other stakeholders exploring the capabilities of remote sensing in emergency response activities.