A GIS-based framework for climate change risk assessment of integrated horizontal infrastructure network

Abstract

In the face of global climate change, critical infrastructure systems are increasingly exposed to weather events and require a comprehensive understanding of their vulnerability. GIS-based climate risk assessments offer robust tools for visualizing and analyzing climate-related risks, emphasizing interdependencies among different infrastructure groups. This study presents a multi-hazard, multi-sectoral geospatial framework to assess climate change impacts on infrastructure, such as roads, water, and power, prioritizing physical and geographical interdependencies. Understanding the interconnectedness between infrastructure networks and multi-hazard impact will enable better understanding and management of the complex system by prioritizing the infrastructure and location at risk as the first step towards climate adaptation planning. This paper presents and validates such a methodology on a sample network of a local council in New Zealand. By identifying and classifying locations of interest (LoI) according to the climate and natural hazard impacts, asset density, and the presence of vulnerable communities along the coastal areas, the study identifies 25% of locations considered high-risk, 17% low-risk, and the majority falling under medium risk for the study area. The proposed framework offers an essential GIS-based tool for assessing infrastructure and community vulnerability, laying the foundation for more detailed quantitative risk identification and adaptation option planning. It provides valuable input for local government decision-making, allowing them to make an informed climate adaptation plan.