Identifying the Impact-Related Data Uses and Gaps for Hydrometeorological Impact Forecasts and Warnings.

Abstract

Impact forecasts and warnings (IFW) allow individuals and communities to adjust their plans and better prepare for the consequences of hazards, but they require more knowledge than traditional hazard warnings. We conducted a series of interviews with data users and creators to understand where hazard, impact, vulnerability, and exposure data are needed. Our findings support existing research identifying the need for creating, gathering, and using such data for IFW systems, and provide new insight into a growing need to identify, model, and warn for social and health impacts, in addition to physical and infrastructure impacts.