Abstract

Web-based GIS for Disaster Management in Guimaras, Philippines
Track: Disaster and Emergency Management
Authors: Evan Anthony Arias

The island-province of Guimaras was devastated by an oil spill in 2006 that exposed its vulnerability to natural and man-made disasters. Recognizing the need to improve the province's capability and resilience to disasters, a web-based GIS for disaster management was established to provide the technology support to planning, management and disaster response. This enabled the province to undertake multi-hazard mapping and spatial analysis to determine the possible impacts to built-up areas, communities and key infrastructure. Using the ArcGIS spatial analyst extension, overlays of thematic maps were undertaken to determine areas of high vulnerability and map out possible evacuation areas and escape routes. Informed decision-making was enhanced and the GIS analysis revealed that four hazards can potentially affect Guimaras; tsunami, earthquake, landslide and flooding. Tsunami poses the most significant hazard affecting three out of the five towns of the island and a significant number of households.