Disaster evacuations can take much longer than people expect
How people perceive risks and the environmental and social cues around them directly affect the speed of their response.
Researchers are developing systems to help communities model how their residents are likely to respond in the event of a disaster. The results can help emergency crews understand where bottlenecks are likely to occur along evacuation routes, depending on the timing of the notice and the movement of the fire. They can also help fire managers understand where neighborhoods may need to be notified faster or need more help evacuating.
The ConversationDisaster evacuations can take much longer than people expect − computer simulations could help save lives and avoid chaosThe LA wildfires stand as a reminder that evacuating fast in the face of a disaster isn’t easy, even when you think you’re prepared.
