Assessing the Vulnerability of Coastal Communities to Tsunami Hazards: A GIS-based Approach

Abstract

Assessing the vulnerability of coastal communities to tsunami hazards is essential for effective disaster preparedness and risk reduction efforts Geographic Information Systems (GIS)-based approach to evaluate the vulnerability of coastal areas to tsunamis, integrating spatial data on population density, land use, elevation, and tsunami inundation zones. By analyzing these spatial variables, we identify areas with high population exposure, critical infrastructure, and natural features susceptible to tsunami impact. Additionally, the GIS-based approach enables the identification of evacuation routes, safe zones, and areas requiring priority interventions to enhance community resilience. Case studies in vulnerable coastal regions demonstrate the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed methodology for assessing tsunami vulnerability and informing disaster management strategies. the advancement of GIS-based tools for tsunami risk assessment and supports decision-making processes aimed at reducing the impacts of tsunamis on coastal communities.