A disaster information and monitoring system utilizing earth observation

Purpose - This paper aims to present disaster information and a monitoring system in order to utilize earth observation data in the operative process of early warning, mitigation and management of natural disasters. The system is aimed at integrating earth observation data analysis with modern ICTs including GIS, grid, mobile communication and web technology to support disaster monitoring and to share disaster information during a crisis.Design methodology approach - The system development concerned outlining an operative disaster monitoring and management process. The process was derived from actual practices, suggestions and needs of different user groups involved in disaster management. After investigating state-of-the-art ICTs and reviewing the existing tools and databases, a suitable system architecture was designed and a prototype system was implemented, adapting to a proven software development process.Findings - The prototype system implementation demonstrated how satellite-based data can be used to support disaster management processes. Disaster monitoring requires information system infrastructure that would enable communication and integrate various distributed information sources and services.Originality value - The result gives ideas for establishing an operative disaster management process involving local authorities, disaster analysts and the public. The process integrates earth observation data analysis with modern ICTs and improves the methods of early warning. The developed concept can be used as the basis for future development of automated real-time disaster monitoring.