This book brings together a collection of innovative papers on strategies for analyzing the spatial and economic impacts of disasters. Natural and human-induced disasters pose several challenges for conventional modeling. For example, disasters entail complex linkages between the natural, built, and socio-economic environments. They often create chaos and economic disequilibrium, and can also cause unexpected long-term, structural changes. Dynamic interactions among agents and behavioral adjustments in a disaster become complicated. The papers in this volume make notable progress in tackling these challenges through refinements of conventional methods, as well as new modeling frameworks and multidisciplinary, integrative strategies. The papers also provide case study applications that afford new insights on disaster processes and loss reduction strategies.

Reviews

From the reviews: "Modelling Spatial and Economic Impacts of Disasters is a new book published in 2004 ! . The book is a sound foundational text ! . is best described as an extensive, well-organised literature review of disaster impact modelling research. ! the book is a good synopsis of fundamental concepts, current research and future directions. ! In addition to disaster and emergency modelling specialists, the book is recommended to risk management professionals, policy makers, senior managers and researchers in emergency management related roles." (Ron Shamir, The Australian Journal of Emergency Management, Vol. 20 (1), February, 2005)