Dynamic Hazard Assessment: Using agent-based modeling of complex, dynamic hazards for hazard assessment

This exploratory study examines the use of agent-based modeling for the dynamic assessment of the hazards associated with flooding responses. While flooding is the specific agent used the techniques are applicable to any type of hazard. The equation upon which the model is built considers three components of vulnerability: geophysical, built, social environments and one component of resiliency, public safety response organizations. The three components of vulnerability combine to create an initial vulnerability level. The public safety response capability is subtracted to provide an adjusted vulnerability. The adjusted vulnerability varies as response assets fluctuate between available and assigned. The development of the agent characteristics for both vulnerability and resiliency requires quantification of the interdependencies of the environment as well as the interaction among the response agencies in a complex adaptive system. The result of the study is anticipated to be a realistic method of conducting an assessment of hazards through the use of vulnerability and resiliency models and a computer simulation that allows the user to evaluate potential impacts