Geohazard modeling using remote sensing and GIS

Abstract

Geohazards are environmental conditions leading to widespread damage or risk to human life and property triggered by earth processes. Rapid industrial growth, urbanization, deforestation and carbon economy has resulting in climate driven geohazards. Earth observation through remote sensing coupled with ground based network of sensors have helps us monitor small changes in our environment which are helpful in predicting the vulnerability of a region to geohazards. Such technology has helped minimize the impact of the event thereby increasing the resilience of society to such hazards. GIS based information analysis and modelling of environmental parameters and earth observations have not only supported predictive analyses for securing future investments and vulnerable sections of society but also have demonstrated their utility in assessing the damage and the reconstruction of the region. This chapter discusses the role of Remote Sensing and GIS in modelling geohazards and their impact through examples from different parts of the planet, summarizing the opportunities and challenges for the future.