This study combined natural hazard modelling and geographic information system (GIS) analysis with graph theory tools to provide a better understanding of the impacts of lifeline failure during natural hazard events and assess the usefulness of graph theory techniques in aiding disaster mitigation, emergency response and community recovery. Focusing on the exposure of road networks to volcanic ash from a future eruption at Mount Fuji in Japan, Dr Emma Singh worked with local governments in Japan to understand better how ash-induced road closures can impact evacuation plans and community recovery post-eruption. The methods developed can be applied to any natural hazard or lifeline network to identify at-risk critical infrastructure and determining the potential disruption caused by service failure. Governments, emergency management agencies and communities can all benefit from Emma’s findings.

This project was completed in 2019.