Application of Geographic Information System to the Study of Natural Hazards: Related to Glacial Retreat and Rockfalls

Authors

  • N. Andrés de Pablo
  • L. M. Tanarro García
  • D. Palacios Estremera

Keywords:

Sistemas de Información Geográfica, riesgos naturales, retroceso glaciar, desprendimientos

Abstract

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have become an essential tool in studies dealing with
natural hazard prevention. The use of GIS covers all the phases of analysis, from the acquirement,
integration and treatment of information to the conversion of such information into specific
knowledge about hazards affecting a territory and its vulnerability to natural disasters. Today, GIS
are essential tools in the development of thematic maps that represent the hazards and vulnerability
of a specifi c territory. A proper risk assessment depends on the quality of hazard maps, including
maps of potential hazards based on numerical simulations, as well as geochronology maps based
on the study of recurrence periods. This paper presents two examples in which the use of GIS in
the initial stage of a risk study facilitates obtaining information suitable for the implementation of
hazard maps. The two case studies demonstrate how GIS can be integrated in a research dealing
with the prevention of natural hazards, in perfect harmony with other techniques such as fi eld or
conventional photo-interpretation. They also show that GIS are of great value in the communication
of results to the organizations responsible for decision making.

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Published

2010-12-17

How to Cite

Andrés de Pablo, N., Tanarro García, L. M., & Palacios Estremera, D. (2010). Application of Geographic Information System to the Study of Natural Hazards: Related to Glacial Retreat and Rockfalls. Ciudad Y Territorio Estudios Territoriales, 42(165-6), 529–550. Retrieved from https://recyt.fecyt.es/index.php/CyTET/article/view/76015