Data Collection from Field Investigations During Debris Removal Operations After Hurricane Ian - Florida

In the wake of Hurricane Ian's catastrophic landfall in September 2022 as a Category 4 storm, the devastation spread from western Cuba to central Florida, generating an overwhelming volume of debris and underscoring the urgent need for robust debris management strategies. In response, our SUMMEER team, through the RAPID project, embarked on collecting comprehensive data on the hurricane's impacts, illegal dumping, and the ensuing debris management efforts in severely affected areas, including North Port, Venice, and Arcadia. Utilizing advanced technologies such as UAVs, 3-D LiDAR scanners, and multispectral and thermal cameras, the RAPID project primarily focused on quantifying uncollected and illegally dumped debris along publicly owned roadways. Conducted over three distinct periods—November 16-18, December 5-7, and January 9-11—the field assessment aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the evolving conditions in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian. These specific timeframes enabled us to document not only the immediate aftermath but also the changes over time, thereby facilitating a thorough analysis of the disaster's impact and the effectiveness of the debris management efforts undertaken. This project's comprehensive approach has enabled a detailed analysis of the volume and trajectory of debris, highlighting the dynamics of debris collection and disposal processes. By creating a detailed empirical database, including aerial maps, 3D LiDAR maps, and multispectral and thermal images, this project provides essential data that supports effective cleanup and recovery operations, thereby contributing to more efficient future disaster preparedness and response strategies.