Cover HAZUS-MH Risk Assessment and User Group Series Using HAZUS-MH for Risk Assessment How-To Guide FEMA 433 / August 2004 Federal Emergency Management Agency Cover graphic: United States map illustration overlaid with three computer screenshots from the HAZUS-MH program. Title Page HAZUS-MH Risk Assessment and User Group Series Using HAZUS-MH for Risk Assessment How-To Guide FEMA 433/August 2004 Federal Emergency Management Agency Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of FEMA. Additionally, neither FEMA or any of its employees makes any warrantee, expressed or implied, or assumes any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information, product, or process included in this publication. Users of information from this publication assume all liability arising from such use. Table of Contents Acknowledgments vii Introduction ix Overview ix Layout and Organization of the How-To Guide ix Informational Icons ix Hazard-Specific Icons x Contents of the How-To Guide x Overview of Mitigation Planning xi Introduction to HAZUS-MH xii HAZUS-MH for Risk Assessment xiv HAZUS-MH Levels of Analysis xiv HAZUS-MH Provided Data xv HAZUS-MH and Local Data xv Evaluation of Hazards Not Included in HAZUS-MH xvi Risk Assessment Process Using HAZUS-MH xvi Establishing your Risk Assessment Team xviii Summary xix Step 1: Identify Hazards 1-1 Overview 1-1 Define Your Study Region (Task 1.1) 1-1 Start HAZUS-MH 1-2 Create a Study Region 1-2 Select a Level of Aggregation 1-3 Create A Base Map of your Study Region (Task 1.2) 1-6 Base Map Using HAZUS-MH Provided Data 1-6 Base Maps Using Local Data 1-6 Display Local Data on Your Base Map 1-8 Identify Hazards of Interest (Task 1.3) 1-8 Potential Hazards of Interest and HAZUS-MH 1-9 Earthquakes 1-9 Floods (Coastal and Riverine) 1-11 Hurricanes 1-12 Landslides 1-14 Tornadoes 1-14 Tsunamis 1-15 Wildfires 1-16 Other Hazards 1-16 Documenting Hazards of Interest 1-17 Summary 1-17 Step 2: Profile Hazards 2-1 Overview 2-1 Review HAZUS-MH Provided Hazard Data (Task 2.1) 2-2 Access HAZUS-MH Provided Earthquake Data 2-2 Access HAZUS-MH Provided Flood Data 2-4 Access HAZUS-MH Provided Hurricane Data 2-5 Perform a Data Gap Analysis (Task 2.2) 2-6 Hazard Data for HAZUS-MH Hazard Analysis 2-6 Hazard Data to Map Other Hazards 2-7 Hazard Data Not Used for Mapping but Useful for Written Hazard Profiles (All Hazards) 2-7 Evaluate Available and Desired Data 2-7 Collect Additional Hazard Data (If Needed) (Task 2.3) 2-8 Access General Hazard Data Sources 2-9 Access Specific Hazard Data Sources 2-10 Earthquakes 2-11 Floods (Coastal and Riverine) 2-13 Hurricanes 2-20 Landslides 2-21 Tornadoes 2-23 Tsunamis 2-24 Wildfires 2-26 Other Hazards 2-28 Develop HAZUS-MH Compatible Maps 2-28 Profile and Prioritize Hazards (Task 2.4) 2-29 Summary 2-30 Step 3: Inventory Assets 3-1 Overview 3-1 Review HAZUS-MH Inventory Data (Task 3.1) 3-2 General Building Stock 3-3 Essential Facilities 3-4 Hazardous Material 3-4 High Potential Loss Facilities 3-4 Transportation Lifeline Systems 3-4 Utility Lifeline Systems 3-5 Demographics 3-5 Perform a Data Gap Analysis (Task 3.2) 3-6 Collect Additional Local Inventory Data (If Needed) (Task 3.3) 3-7 Integrate Local Data Into HAZUS-MH (Task 3.4) 3-8 Edit HAZUS-MH Inventory Data Tables 3-9 Import Local Inventory Data Tables into HAZUS-MH 3-9 Collect Data Using InCAST 3-11 Organize and Import Data Using BIT-MH 3-13 Summary 3-14 Step 4: Estimate Losses 4-1 Overview 4-1 Deterministic and Probabilistic Scenarios in HAZUS-MH 4-2 Integrate Hazard Profile Data for HAZUS-MH Level 2 (Task 4.1) 4-4 Earthquakes 4-4 Floods (Coastal) 4-5 Floods (Riverine) 4-7 Hurricanes 4-8 Run HAZUS-MH Scenarios (Task 4.2) 4-10 Run an Earthquake Scenario 4-10 Run a Flood Scenario using HAZUS-MH (Coastal and Riverine) 4-11 Run a Flood Scenario with the Flood Wizard 4-15 Run a Hurricane Scenario 4-17 Obtain Loss Estimation Results from HAZUS-MH Scenarios 4-17 Run the Risk Assessment Tool (Task 4.3) 4-18 Calculate Exposures for Hazards Not Included in HAZUS-MH (Task 4.4) 4-20 Evaluate the Results of the Risk Assessment (Task 4.5) 4-20 Consider and Review Your Loss Estimate Results 4-20 Summary 4-22 Step 5: Consider Mitigation Options 5-1 Overview 5-1 Identify Preliminary Mitigation Options (Task 5.1) 5-3 Regulatory Measures 5-3 Rehabilitation of Existing Structures 5-4 Protective and Control Measures 5-4 Mitigation Measures for Earthquakes 5-5 Regulatory Measures 5-5 Rehabilitation of Existing Structures 5-5 Protective and Control Measures 5-7 Mitigation Measures for Floods 5-7 Regulatory Measures 5-7 Rehabilitation of Existing Structures 5-7 Protective and Control Measures 5-8 Mitigation Measures for Hurricanes 5-8 Regulatory Measures 5-9 Rehabilitation of Existing Structures 5-9 Protective and Control Measures 5-9 Review Mitigation Options (Task 5.2) 5-10 Identify Final List of Mitigation Options (Task 5.3) 5-11 Earthquakes 5-11 Floods 5-12 Riverine Flood Mitigation Measure Evaluation 5-12 Coastal Flood Model Mitigation Measure Evaluation 5-12 Hurricanes 5-14 Verify Mitigation Measures (Task 5.4) 5-16 Summary 5-17 APPENDICES Appendix A: Acronyms and Abbreviations A-1 Appendix B: Glossary of Terms B-1 Appendix C: DMA 2000 Job Aids C-1 Appendix D: Job Aids for Step 2 - Profile Hazards D-1 Appendix E: Job Aids for Step 3 - Inventory Assets E-1 Appendix F: Job Aids for Step 4 - Estimate Losses F-1 Appendix G: Job Aids for Step 5 - Consider Mitigation Options G-1 TABLES Table 1: System Specifications for HAZUS-MH xiii Table 2: Members of a Risk Assessment Team xviii Table 3: Introduction Activities and Outputs Checklist xix Table 1-1: Identify Hazards Activities and Outputs Checklist 1-17 Table 2-1: Earthquake Hazard Characteristic Data Sources 2-13 Table 2-2: Flood Hazard Data Needs and Sources 2-14 Table 2-3: Hurricane Hazard Data Sources to Support HAZUS-MH 2-20 Table 2-4: Fire Hazard Severity Table 2-27 Table 2-5: Data Sources for Additional Hazard Maps of Interest 2-28 Table 2-6: Profile Hazards Activities and Outputs Checklist 2-30 Table 3-1: Inventory Assets Activities and Outputs Checklist 3-15 Table 4-1: Estimate Losses Activities and Outputs Checklist 4-22 Table 5-1: Consider Mitigation Options Activities and Outputs Checklist 5- 17 FIGURES Figure 1: The Hazard Mitigation Planning Process xii Figure 2: HAZUS-MH Risk Assessment Process and Outputs xvii Figure 1-1: Step 1 Tasks and Outputs 1-1 Figure 1-2: HAZUS-MH Startup Menu 1-2 Figure 1-3: Entering the Study Region Name 1-3 Figure 1-4: Selecting Hazards 1-3 Figure 1-5: Aggregation Level Menu 1-3 Figure 1-6: State Selection List 1-4 Figure 1-7: State Selection Map 1-4 Figure 1-8: County Selection List 1-5 Figure 1-9: County Selection Map 1-5 Figure 1-10: Census Tract Selection List 1-5 Figure 1-11: Census Tract Selection Map 1-5 Figure 1-12: ArcToolbox Data Conversion Utility 1-7 Figure 1-13: ArcToolbox Data Projection Utility 1-7 Figure 1-14: Adding Local Base Map Data 1-8 Figure 2-1: Step 2 Tasks and Outputs 2-1 Figure 2-2: Earthquake Screen 2-2 Figure 2-3: Ground Motion Menu 2-2 Figure 2-4: Earthquake Scenario Selection 2-3 Figure 2-5: Earthquake Epicenter Database 2-3 Figure 2-6: Epicenter Event Map 2-3 Figure 2-7: Hurricane Screen 2-5 Figure 2-8: Hurricane Scenario Operation 2-5 Figure 2-9: Flood Wizard Destination Directory 2-18 Figure 2-10: Flood Wizard Installation Complete 2-18 Figure 2-11: Flood Wizard Program Location 2-18 Figure 2-12: Flood Wizard Menu 2-19 Figure 2-13: Flood Wizard Data Menu 2-19 Figure 3-1: Step 3 Tasks and Outputs 3-1 Figure 3-2: Local Inventory Data Collection Potential Level of Effort 3-6 Figure 3-3: Example of an Inventory Table 3-9 Figure 3-4: Import Features with Attributes 3-10 Figure 3-5: Identifying the Database to be Imported 3-10 Figure 3-6: Source and Target Field Mapping Tool 3-10 Figure 3-7: Interactive Database Dictionary 3-11 Figure 3-8: Saving a Database Mapping Scheme 3-11 Figure 3-9: InCAST General Menu 3-12 Figure 3-10: InCAST Earthquake Menu 3-12 Figure 3-11: InCAST Flood Menu 3-12 Figure 3-12: InCAST Wind Menu 3-13 Figure 3-13: BIT-MH Startup Menu 3-13 Figure 3-14: Mapping Menu 3-13 Figure 3-15: Category Menu 3-14 Figure 3-16: Category Mapping Menu 3-14 Figure 4-1: Step 4 Tasks and Outputs 4-1 Figure 4-2: Earthquake Hazard Scenario Selection Menu 4-4 Figure 4-3: Define Hazard Maps Option Menu 4-4 Figure 4-4: FIT Startup Menu 4-6 Figure 4-5: Project Setup Screen 4-6 Figure 4-6: Editing the Hazard Maps 4-8 Figure 4-7: Terrain Table 4-9 Figure 4-8: Tree Parameters Table 4-9 Figure 4-9: Seismic Hazard Type Selection Menu 4-10 Figure 4-10: Probabilistic Hazard Selection Menu 4-10 Figure 4-11: Hazard Scenario Event Name Menu 4-11 Figure 4-12: Analysis Options Menu 4-11 Figure 4-13: Creating New Study Case Dialog Box 4-12 Figure 4-14: Stream Reach Selection 4-12 Figure 4-15: Hazard Menu 4-13 Figure 4-16: Analysis Options Menu 4-14 Figure 4-17: Wizard Installation Menu 4-15 Figure 4-18: InstallShield Wizard Complete 4-15 Figure 4-19: Flood Window Menu Box 4-16 Figure 4-20: Flood Data Menu 4-16 Figure 4-21: Analysis Main Menu 4-16 Figure 4-22: Scenario Operation Menu 4-17 Figure 4-23: Analysis Options Menu 4-17 Figure 4-24: RAT Installation Menu 4-18 Figure 4-25: RAT Destination Directory 4-18 Figure 4-26: Installation Wizard Complete 4-19 Figure 4-27: Third Party Model Menu 4-19 Figure 4-28: RAT Program Location 4-19 Figure 4-29: RAT Menu Box 4-19 Figure 4-30: RAT Report 4-20 Figure 5-1: Step 5 Tasks and Outputs 5-1 Figure 5-2: “What If” Menu 5-13 Figure 5-3: Levee Options 5-13 Figure 5-4: Flow Regulation 5-13 Figure 5-5: Long Term Erosion 5-14 Figure 5-6: Shore Protection 5-14 Figure 5-7: Analysis Options 5-14 Figure 5-8: Wind Building Characteristics Menu 5-15 Figure 5-9: Wind Building Characteristics Distribution Menu 5-15 Figure 5-10: Building Mitigation Menu 5-15 WORKSHEETS Worksheet 1: Risk Assessment Team Members xx Worksheet 1-1: Identify Your Hazards 1-18 Worksheet 1-2: Summary of Hazards Identification 1-19 Worksheet 2-1: Identify Required Hazard Data 2-31 Worksheet 2-2: Profile Hazards 2-32 Worksheet 2-3: Prioritize Hazards 2-34 Worksheet 3-1: HAZUS-MH Inventory Data and Data Sources 3-16 Worksheet 4-1: Inventory At Risk Estimates 4-23 Worksheet 4-2: Flood Wizard Outputs 4-25 Worksheet 5-1A: Identify Preliminary List of Mitigation Options Based on HAZUS-MH Loss Estimates 5-18 Worksheet 5-1B: Prepare a Preliminary List of Mitigation Options 5-19 Worksheet 5-2: Prepare a Short List of Mitigation Options 5-25 Worksheet 5-3: Prepare a Final List of Mitigation Options 5-26 EXAMPLES Example 1: Pilot Project Risk Assessment Team Members xxi Example 1-1: Identify Hazards – Summary Worksheet for Austin, TX 1-20 Example 2-1: Hazard Profile – Earthquake 2-35 Example 3-1: HAZUS-MH Inventory Data and Data Sources 3-19 Example 4-1: Estimate Losses (Hurricane Loss Estimate for Austin, TX) 4-27 Example 5-1A: Mitigation Measures for the Built Environment 5-21 Example 5-1B: Mitigation Measures for the Built Environment by Hazard 5-23 Acknowledgments This How-To Guide is designed to help prepare standardized, scientifically-based risk assessments using the Hazards U.S. Multi-Hazard (HAZUS-MH) software. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) prepared this guide based on field- implemented HAZUS-MH risk assessment pilot projects across the country that are responding to the requirements of the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (DMA 2000). FEMA prepared this guide for users who have had exposure to HAZUS-MH and are interested in using HAZUS-MH to support risk assessment studies. Principal Authors: Carla Buriks, Tetra Tech EM Inc. William Bohn, Tetra Tech EM Inc. Milagros Kennett, FEMA, Project Officer, Risk Management Series Publications Lisa Scola, Tetra Tech EM Inc. Bogdan Srdanovic, Spring International Consulting Group Contributors: Scott Lawson, PBS&J Thomas Adkisson, Tetra Tech EM Inc. Ross Berman, Tetra Tech EM Inc. Jawhar Bouabid, PBS&J Wanda Rizer, design4impact Deb Daly, Greenhorne & O’Mara, Inc. This manual was prepared under contract to FEMA. It will be revised periodically, and comments and feedback to improve future editions are welcome. Please send comments and feedback by e-mail to riskmanagementseriespubs@dhs.gov. Introduction Overview This Introduction presents the layout and organization of the How-To Guide, an overview of mitigation planning, information about HAZUS-MH and risk assessments, and activities to help establish your risk assessment team. Sidebar: Reference: This How-To Guide should be used in conjunction with the HAZUS-MH software; and the user and technical manuals that are provided with your HAZUS-MH software. Other references listed throughout the guide also will assist your risk assessment efforts. Layout and Organization of the How-To Guide This How-To Guide focuses on the basic steps and tasks necessary to complete your risk assessment. The guide presents pertinent information in text boxes that provide specific software and technical information, key definitions, examples, and references. Hazard icons indicate hazard-specific information for several natural disasters. These text boxes and icons provide guidance and helpful suggestions to accomplish the tasks described in this How-To Guide. Informational Icons The following icons indicate the topic of each text box: The HAZUS icon indicates information about the HAZUS-MH software, its advantages, and its uses. The Definition icon identifies key terms, definitions, and acronyms. The Example icon provides examples of how pilot project communities have applied HAZUS-MH in their risk assessments. The Note icon identifies additional technical information, including useful reminders and tips based on lessons learned from the pilot projects. The Reference icon lists additional useful materials and regulatory citations. The Wizard icon refers to two HAZUS-MH utility tools -- the Flood Macro Wizard and the Risk Assessment Tool; both tools simplify and shortcut the process of obtaining HAZUS-MH risk assessment outputs. The Job Aid icon indicates resources that can help you complete the risk assessment process using HAZUS-MH. The Output icon indicates outputs for each step of the risk assessment process obtained by implementing the tasks in the How-To Guide and the worksheets included for each step. Hazard-Specific Icons The hazard-specific icons provide information and instructions for the following specific natural hazards: Earthquakes, Hurricanes, Tornadoes, Tsunamis, Coastal Floods, Riverine Floods, Landslides, and Wildfires. Contents of the How-To Guide This How-To Guide is organized into an Introduction, five steps, and seven appendices: --Introduction --Identify Hazards (Step 1) --Profile Hazards (Step 2) --Inventory Assets (Step 3) --Estimate Losses (Step 4) --Consider Mitigation Options (Step 5) --Appendix A: Acronyms and Abbreviations --Appendix B: Glossary of Terms --Appendix C: DMA 2000 Job Aids --Appendix D: Job Aids for Step 2 --Appendix E: Job Aids for Step 3 --Appendix F: Job Aids for Step 4 --Appendix G: Job Aids for Step 5 The sections of this guide are organized around the five steps of conducting a risk assessment using HAZUS-MH. Each step includes: --Text and graphics that describe the risk assessment steps --Instructions and corresponding HAZUS-MH screen captures to support the steps --Practical implementation examples and lessons learned from field-based pilot projects --Worksheets and associated job aids as training tools to help you complete each step The remainder of this Introduction provides an overview of mitigation planning, an introduction to HAZUS-MH, and steps to establish your risk assessment team. Overview of Mitigation Planning Hazard mitigation is any action that reduces the destructive and disruptive effects of future disasters. Mitigation efforts generally offer the best and most cost-effective methods of addressing the impacts associated with disasters. To support better mitigation planning for future disasters, Congress enacted the DMA 2000. FEMA is the lead agency supporting implementation of the DMA 2000 requirements and makes funds available to support efforts to meet these requirements. In 2002, FEMA issued regulations and guidelines to implement the DMA 2000 requirements for mitigation planning by states and communities. To be eligible for FEMA funds, state and local entities are required to prepare DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plans for natural hazards. Hazard Mitigation Plans can be developed using the general process shown in Figure 1. In addition, the DMA 2000 Job Aids in Appendix C provide a summary of DMA 2000 requirements and how HAZUS- MH resources can support these requirements. Sidebar: Reference: FEMA developed an Interim Final Rule (for DMA 2000) that specifies the mitigation planning requirements for states and local governments. This rule is available at http://www.fema.gov/fima/planning10.shtm. The DMA 2000 Job Aids in Appendix C summarize the rule and list resources available to help you meet DMA requirements. FEMA developed a series of mitigation planning guides that provide additional information and tools related to DMA 2000 requirements. Information about these guides is available at http://www.fema.gov/fima/planhowto.shtm. Additional information including DMA 2000 Multi-Hazard Mitigation Guidance is available at http://www.fema.gov/fima/planning_toc4.shtm. The primary purpose of hazard mitigation planning is to help communities identify the most effective policies, actions, and tools to decrease risk and the potential for future losses in a community. Before implementing mitigation measures, communities must assess potential hazards and the risks that they pose. For purposes of hazard mitigation, risk assessments estimate the social and economic impact that hazards can have on people, buildings, services, facilities, and infrastructure in a community. The usefulness of a risk assessment is directly dependent upon the quality and appropriateness of the data incorporated. Figure 1: The hazard mitigation planning process A flow chart showing the phases and steps to take. Ongoing Community Involvement in Phase 1: Organize Resources --identify and obtain the resources needed for mitigation --identify and organize interested community members and technical experts Phase 2: Assess Risks --identify the characteristics and potential consequences of natural hazards Sidebar: HAZUS-MH Risk Assessment Basic Steps: HAZUS-MH is applied using the five steps outlined in this How-to Guide. Step 1: identify hazards Step 2: profile hazards Step 3: inventory assets Step 4: estimate losses Step 5: consider mitigation options Phase 3: Develop a Mitigation Plan --determine the community's mitigation priorities --identify options to avoid or minimize undesired effects --develop a natural hazard mitigation plan and implementation strategy Phase 4: --apply the mitigation plan in the community --implement high priority mitigation projects outlined in the plan --monitor mitigation actions and update the plan accordingly Introduction to HAZUS-MH HAZUS-MH is a nationally applicable software program and standardized methodology for estimating potential losses from earthquake, flood, and hurricane hazards. FEMA developed HAZUS-MH in partnership with the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS). Loss estimates produced with HAZUS-MH are based on current scientific and engineering knowledge regarding the effects of earthquake, flood, and hurricane hazards. These loss estimates can support the risk assessment component of your planning effort. Sidebar: Reference: Frequently asked questions about the DMA 2000 planning process and its requirements are answered at the following web site: http://www.fema.gov/fima/planfaq.shtm. The following user capabilities are recommended for HAZUS-MH: --Familiarity with Microsoft® Windows-based environments and Geographic Information System (GIS) software (ArcGIS®) --Knowledge and experience with electronic data manipulation Table 1 shows the computer system specifications required to run HAZUS-MH. Side Bar: Note: HAZUS-MH includes the largest compilation of geo-referenced data made available by the federal government at no cost. In addition to data provided with HAZUS- MH, a variety of data (presented in further detail throughout the document) are available that can be used in risk assessment studies as follows: Hazard information to supplement HAZUS-MH provided data may be obtained from sources in the fields of meteorology, hydrology, geomorphology, and seismology. Inventory data regarding the people and structures at risk are provided in HAZUS-MH from national and regional databases (such as the United States Census) and can be refined with local data. Vulnerability data regarding areas and assets at particular risk can best be refined at the local level. Table 1: System Specifications for HAZUS-MH Computer Speed Memory Minimal: Pentium® III, 1 gigahertz (GHz) core speed and 512 megabyte (MB) random access memory (RAM). Allows moderately fast analysis of small communities only. Moderate: Pentium® IV, 2 GHz core speed and 512 MB RAM. Allows fast analysis of medium-sized communities and real-time analysis for small communities. Recommended: Pentium® IV with 800 MHz system bus and 2.6 GHz (or better) core speed and 1 GB RAM. Allows fast analysis of large urban areas and real-time analysis for all communities. Computer Storage: Free Hard Disk Space Minimal: 10 Gigabytes (GB). Allows installation of HAZUS-MH and storage of three scenarios for a medium-sized community. Moderate: 40 GB. Allows installation of HAZUS-MH and storage of three scenarios for large urban areas. Recommended: 80 GB. Allows installation of HAZUS-MH and storage of 25 or more scenarios for large urban areas. Hardware and Software • CD-ROM reader with 32x minimum read speed • Microsoft® Windows XP or 2000 • DVD-ROM reader with 12x minimum read speed • ArcGIS® 8.3 GIS software (ArcGIS® 9 in Fall 2004)* • Graphics Card with 800x600 minimum resolution • Mouse, keyboard, and computer monitor • ESRI’s Spacial Analyst 8.3 HAZUS-MH for Risk Assessment HAZUS-MH can be used to evaluate a variety of hazards and associated risks to support mitigation planning efforts. HAZUS-MH provides natural hazard and inventory data; it estimates losses and has strong mapping and layout capabilities. HAZUS-MH outputs can be presented in map and tabular formats for easy review, use, and communication to stakeholders. HAZUS-MH provides risk assessment outputs and loss estimates for use in: --Planning for and mitigating the possible consequences of disaster events --Anticipating the possible nature and scope of emergency response needed to cope with disaster events --Developing plans for recovery and reconstruction following a disaster Sidebar: HAZUS software: HAZUS-MH has distinct advantages for risk assessment, including: • Consistent platform and methodology for assessing risk across geographic and political entities • Framework that can be used to save and update data as population, inventory, and other factors change, and as planning efforts evolve • Strong mapping capabilities for hazard and inventory data • Visual mapping and tabular outputs that promote communication and interaction with local stakeholders, a requirement of the mitigation planning process The models in HAZUS-MH are designed to estimate the consequences to a city or other defined study region from three primary types of hazard events - earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes. The resulting loss estimates describe the scale and extent of damage and disruption that may result from a potential hazard event. To generate this information, HAZUS-MH uses data provided with the software and/or user-provided local data to estimate the type and extent of damage for each specific hazard. Also, HAZUS-MH can be used to estimate the exposure of local assets to other hazards not included in the software. Sidebar: HAZUS software: FEMA provides a number of training courses and other resources to support HAZUS-MH. You can learn more about these resources at http://www.fema.gov/hazus/. Look for the “Training/Conferences” link. HAZUS-MH Levels of Analysis HAZUS-MH is a flexible software tool that allows for varied levels of customization, based on your resources and analysis needs. The flexibility provided with HAZUS-MH is described as analysis Levels 1 through 3, which are defined as follows: Level 1: Level 1 involves using HAZUS-MH provided hazard and inventory data with minimal outside data collection or mapping. You can conduct a Level 1 analysis using the inventory and hazard data sets provided with HAZUS-MH. Limited additional data are required to complete a Level 1 flood hazard analysis (e.g., for a coastal analysis, the digital elevation model, 100-year still water area, and still water elevation are required). Level 1 analysis, relying on HAZUS-MH provided data, can be an acceptable level of information for mitigation planning. Level 2: Level 2 involves augmenting the HAZUS-MH provided hazard and inventory data with more recent or detailed data for your study region. These additional data are referred to as “local data” throughout this How-To Guide. Use of local data will refine the HAZUS-MH analyses and generally will produce more accurate results. Level 3: Level 3 involves adjusting the built-in loss estimation models used for the earthquake, flood, and hurricane loss analyses. This typically is done in concert with the use of local data (Level 2 analysis). It is only pursued by advanced users with knowledge of the hazard models developed for HAZUS-MH and when the users need more accurate results or need to solve specific problems. This How-To Guide focuses on the use of Level 1 and Level 2 analyses using HAZUS-MH. Level 3 analysis techniques are not addressed in detail. Sidebar: Note: If a jurisdiction chooses to use HAZUS-MH in support of risk assessment, the minimum level of analysis that is acceptable will vary, depending on the community’s resources, data availability, and technical capabilities. HAZUS-MH Provided Data HAZUS-MH includes sophisticated models that combine data regarding the vulnerability of the study region to each hazard with data that describe the region’s population and social and economic bases. Hazard data include historic events and area characteristics that influence how each hazard impacts a given area. The inventory data for all of the HAZUS-MH models use basic information on population, buildings, and facilities obtained from the United States Census and other national databases. HAZUS-MH and Local Data HAZUS-MH includes national data sets that can be supplemented with local data. If local detailed data are available, you may consider using this data to perform more refined studies using HAZUS-MH Level 2 and Level 3 analyses. HAZUS- MH is flexible and allows you to update HAZUS-MH provided data with local data or use a combination of both. Augmenting the HAZUS-MH provided data with local data can improve the accuracy and resolution of your analysis results. However, collecting local data can be time-consuming and costly. Decisions about collecting this information should be balanced against the possible benefits of the data to support mitigation planning. Evaluation of Hazards Not Included in HAZUS-MH HAZUS-MH can support the evaluation of some hazards that are not included as models in the current HAZUS-MH software. If your studies and data allow you to map hazard areas for other hazards, you can display these maps using the GIS functionality provided with HAZUS-MH. Also, you can estimate the inventory exposed within the hazard areas for these hazards. If you also have probability data for hazards or strong historical loss data, you can estimate the probability of different levels of losses using techniques outside of the HAZUS- MH software. Approaches to support exposure estimates using hazard area maps are described in Step 4 of this guide. Risk Assessment Process Using HAZUS-MH A specific risk assessment process for using HAZUS-MH was documented during the field pilots. This process, shown in Figure 2, outlines the steps, tasks, and subsequent outputs involved in applying HAZUS-MH for your risk assessment. Each of these steps, tasks, and outputs is discussed in more detail in the subsequent steps of this How-To Guide. Note that normally a risk assessment has four steps and concludes with loss estimation; however, for this How-To Guide, a fifth step, Consider Mitigation Options, has been added. The purpose of the added step is to help you with your mitigation planning and assist in identifying, reviewing, and evaluating mitigation measures. Figure 2: HAZUS-MH risk assessment process and outputs Ongoing Community Involvement RISK ASSESSMENT PROCESS Identify Hazards (Step 1) 1.1 Define Your Study Region 1.2 Create a Base Map of Your Study Region 1.3 Identify Hazards of Interest HAZUS-MH OUTPUTS • Study Region • Base Map • List of Hazards of Interest RISK ASSESSMENT PROCESS Profile Hazards (Step 2) 2.1 Review HAZUS-MH Provided Hazard Data 2.2 Perform a Data Gap Analysis 2.3 Collect Additional Hazard Data (if needed) 2.4 Profile and Prioritize Your Hazards HAZUS-MH OUTPUTS • Updated Hazard Data • Completed Profiles • Hazard Map Summary • Hazard Profile • Hazard Prioritization RISK ASSESSMENT PROCESS Inventory Assets (Step 3) 3.1 Review HAZUS-MH Provided Inventory Data 3.2 Perform a Data Gap Analysis 3.3 Collect Additional Local Data (if needed) 3.4 Integrate Local Data into HAZUS-MH HAZUS-MH OUTPUTS • Tables and Maps of Inventory Data • Updated Local Data in HAZUS-MH • List of Data Sources RISK ASSESSMENT PROCESS Estimate Losses (Step 4) 4.1 Integrate Hazard Profile Data for HAZUS-MH Level 2 4.2 Run HAZUS-MH Scenarios 4.3 Run the Risk Assessment Tool 4.4 Calculate Exposures for Hazards Not Included in HAZUS-MH 4.5 Evaluate the Results of Your Risk Assessment 3.4 Integrate Local Data into HAZUS-MH HAZUS-MH OUTPUTS • Loss Estimate Tables, Maps, and Summary Reports • Flood Wizard and Risk Assessment Tool Outputs RISK ASSESSMENT PROCESS Consider Mitigation Options (Step 5) 5.1 Identify Preliminary Mitigation Options 5.2 Review Mitigation Options 5.3 Identify Final List of Mitigation Options 5.4 Verify Mitigation Options HAZUS-MH OUTPUTS • Preliminary List of Mitigation Options • Short List of Mitigation Options • Final List of Mitigation Options • Consolidated List of Mitigation Options Establishing Your Risk Assessment Team Prior to beginning the steps and tasks of your risk assessment, it is prudent to identify and establish your risk assessment team. Table 2 shows the types of personnel who may be useful in mitigation planning and HAZUS-MH risk assessment efforts. Generally, a local planning or emergency management representative will lead this team. The lead person will be primarily responsible for developing the Hazard Mitigation Plan. However, a wide variety of persons may be useful to your team and should be included (e.g., engineers, natural hazard experts, public works directors, and economists). Involving a variety of people from different segments of the community will ensure that all relevant issues and concerns are considered when planning and implementing your risk assessment. It is important to emphasize that because HAZUS-MH runs from a GIS platform, a GIS specialist should be part of the team. Worksheet 1 includes a format for listing your team members and their contact information. Example 1 describes pilot project risk assessment team members. Key team members should meet regularly to develop and implement the risk assessment and subsequent mitigation planning efforts. Table 2: Members of a Risk Assessment Team Type of Team Member: Members with Specific Responsibilities Type of Personnel --Local planning or emergency management representative (team leader) --Representatives of state and local government agencies --GIS specialists --Multidisciplinary subject-matter experts --Utility companies and public works experts Type of Team Member: Support Members (providing advice or technical input) Type of Personnel --Community leaders and elected officials --Business owners and operators and representatives of development organizations --Representatives of neighborhood groups and other nonprofit organizations --Interested citizens --Representatives of Federal Government agencies --Personnel affiliated with academic institutions Summary The introduction should have familiarized you the requirements of DMA 2000 and HAZUS-MH, and how HAZUS-MH can support your risk assessment. Each step of this guide ends with a checklist of activities and outputs that should be completed. Table 3 will help you make sure you have completed these activities. Review the list below and add check marks in the third column where you have completed the activities or outputs indicated. Table 3: Introduction Activities and Output Checklist Activity: Understand the DMA 2000 requirements Output: Understanding of the DMA 2000 requirements Activity: Obtain your free copy of HAZUS-MH software from the FEMA distribution center Output: HAZUS-MH software, user manuals, and technical manuals Activity: Identify key and support members of your risk assessment team Output: Risk assessment team documented using Worksheet 1 Activity: Review Introduction text and the examples provided Output: Understanding of how to get started and how HAZUS-MH can support the risk assessment process Complete any missing items in your checklist and then continue to Step 1. GO TO STEP 1: IDENTIFY HAZARDS Worksheet 1: Risk Assessment Team Members Worksheet 1 will help you to keep track of your team members and their roles in preparing the risk assessment for your community. Worksheet description: for each team member, list the name, title, team role, and contact information. Check off which team members 1. have specific responsibilities for developing and implementing the risk assessment 2. can provide advice or data during the risk assessment study 3. can provide technical input and support during implementation of the risk assessment. Example 1: Pilot Project Risk Assessment Team Members This example illustrates focus areas and team members for the pilot projects communities. Pilot Project Community Risk Assessment Objectives and Focus Areas City of Austin, Texas • Focus on impacts potentially associated with the Colorado River and specific manmade hazards. • City of Austin personnel had some knowledge of HAZUS-MH and a solid GIS foundation. Hazard Mitigation Team Members and Risk Assessment Support Team Primary team members: • FEMA Headquarters and Region VI • State of Texas Department of Public Safety • State of Texas Division of Emergency Management • City of Austin Office of Emergency Management Planning and GIS Departments Partnering agencies: • Austin Water Protection and Development Review Department • Austin Fire Department • Lower Colorado River Authority • Austin Energy • Texas Geographic Society Consultants: • H20 Partners (City of Austin) • FEMA consultants for Austin, Texas Pilot Project Community Risk Assessment Objectives and Focus Areas Eight-County Effort for Wyoming • Focus on impacts potentially associated with flood and earthquake hazards. • HAZUS-MH expertise has developed. • Due to the low population density in WY, some census tract data needed adjustment to smaller areas called census blocks. • Local expertise was used to integrate local hazard and inventory data into HAZUS-MH. Hazard Mitigation Team Members and Risk Assessment Support Team Representatives are supporting mitigation planning across the state, including the eight counties of interest. Representatives supporting the mitigation team include: • FEMA Headquarters and Region VIII • Wyoming Geological Society • State and county emergency management representatives • FEMA consultants for Wyoming A focus area for this effort included updating local inventory data for essential facilities and translating Census data from the tract level to the block level to support user needs. Pilot Project Community Risk Assessment Objectives and Focus Areas Louisville metro, Kentucky • Focus on impacts potentially associated with flood and earthquake hazards. • Louisville/metropolitan area boundaries were used as the study area. • A strong GIS capability was provided through a local not-for-profit organization. • Area’s flood committee was designated as the All-Hazards Mitigation team. • Timing of the pilot project provided a strong foundation to start the mitigation planning process. Hazard Mitigation Team Members and Risk Assessment Support Team Primary team members: • FEMA Headquarters and Region IV • Louisville Metro Emergency Management Agency representatives • Louisville/Jefferson County Information Center (LOJIC, a GIS support entity) • Members of local planning agencies and utility companies • FEMA and local consultants for Louisville metro, Kentucky Because of the importance of the flood hazard to this area, Louisville metro determined that the area’s flood committee would serve as the foundation for the risk assessment team and long-term mitigation planning team, the all-hazards team. This group included representatives from the organizations supporting the risk assessment as well as other local flood committee personnel. Pilot Project Community Risk Assessment Objectives and Focus Areas Marion and Hamilton Counties, Indiana • Focus on impacts potentially associated with flood and earthquake hazards. • The two counties work together on their emergency planning efforts and, therefore, the study area combined the two counties for this pilot. Hazard Mitigation Team Members and Risk Assessment Support Team The pilot project risk assessment team included a range of parties drawn from organizations such as: • FEMA Headquarters and Region V • State of Indiana Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) • IndyGov - City of Indianapolis and Marion County • Hamilton County Emergency Management Agency • FEMA Consultants for Marion and Hamilton Counties, Indiana Partnering agencies: • Indianapolis Mapping and Geographic Infrastructure Systems (IMAGIS) • Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) The lead for mitigation planning efforts is the area emergency management agency. Pilot Project Community Risk Assessment Objectives and Focus Areas City of Portland, Oregon • Focus on performing a refined analysis for earthquake and flood, and using HAZUS-MH as a support tool to consider the landslide and wildfire hazards. • Portland includes a strong GIS capability, refined local data for hazards, and a strong knowledge of HAZUS-MH. • The local team was experienced with HAZUS-MH and supported refinement of the HAZUS-MH provided data. Hazard Mitigation Team Members and Risk Assessment Support Team Primary team members: • FEMA Headquarters and Region IX • State of Oregon Office of Emergency Management • Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) • City of Portland Office of Emergency Management • FEMA Consultants for Portland, Oregon Partnering agencies: • City of Portland Bureau of Technology Services • City of Portland Bureau of Environmental Services • City of Portland Bureau of Planning • Metro Regional Service • Multnomah County Office of Emergency Management • Clackamas County Emergency Management The earthquake and flood hazards were analyzed using HAZUS-MH. Exposure was calculated for the landslide and wildfire hazards with HAZUS-MH support and local hazard area maps provided by the community. Step 1: Identify Hazards Overview The first step in the risk assessment process is to identify hazards that are of interest in your area. This will help you focus on the most important hazards facing your community or region. Your hazards of interest will be influenced by the extent of your study region, which will be established as part of Task 1.1. Task 1.2 involves developing your study region base map, which includes important features for your community. Task 1.3 involves listing the potential hazards of interest for your study region. This step discusses each of these tasks. Examples of how pilot project communities addressed this step are also provided. Worksheets 1-1 and 1-2 at the end of this step can help your risk assessment team identify and document hazards on which to focus your risk assessment. The tasks and outputs for Step 1 are shown in Figure 1-1. Figure 1-1: Step 1 tasks and outputs Step 1: Identify Hazards Tasks-- 1.1 define your study region 1.2 create a base map of your study region 1.3 identify hazards of interest Outputs-- --study region --base map --list of hazards of interest (see worksheets 1-1 and 1-2) Sidebar: Definition: FEMA defines a hazard as “a source of potential danger or adverse condition.” Natural phenomena like earthquakes and floods represent hazards when they have a potential to harm people or property. When a hazard occurs in a particular location, it is referred to as a hazard event. Define Your Study Region (Task 1.1) Before identifying the principal hazards in your area, you must first define the boundaries of your study region. Defining your study region means identifying the specific geographic area that your risk assessment will address. Your study region may encompass a single jurisdiction or may focus on a multi- jurisdictional geographic area. Considerations for both single- and multi- jurisdictional study regions are described below. 1. Single-jurisdiction boundaries. For this approach, you will define the area within your jurisdictional boundaries (e.g., city or town limits) as your study region. This is appropriate in cases where the organization of emergency management functions and the local data available focus on one community or a single jurisdictional area. 2. Multi-jurisdictional boundaries. Where counties, cities, towns, and communities implement multi-jurisdictional mitigation planning efforts and risk assessments by pooling resources, the study region could be defined by the geographic boundaries of the participating jurisdictions. This approach should be considered when counties, cities, or towns are in close proximity; when emergency planning is coordinated across jurisdictions; and when a region faces a common or shared hazard threat. For example, an area such as a watershed could be defined as a study region, to support analysis of hazard impacts on an area managed by multiple organizations to protect specific, natural resources. Sidebar: HAZUS-MH software: The HAZUS-MH Setup DVD-ROM is required to create a study region. This DVD-ROM comes with the software and includes HAZUS-MH data for your area. Start HAZUS-MH To create a study region in HAZUS-MH, first launch HAZUS-MH on your computer by double-clicking the HAZUS-MH icon. The startup menu will be the first dialogue box displayed when you run HAZUS-MH for the first time. Figure 1-2 displays the first dialogue box that appears when HAZUS-MH is launched. Options for beginning will appear as choices. Select “Create a new region,” and click on the “OK” button. Figure 1-2: HAZUS-MH startup menu. Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the startup menu, on which the "Create a new region" option has been selected. Create a Study Region After the “Create a new region” function has been activated, the Setup Wizard will guide you through the steps required to create a study region. Figure 1-3 shows the first menu that will be displayed; this menu allows you to enter a name and a description for your study region. Figure 1-3: Entering the study region name. Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the Study Region Name dialog box, in which the region name and description have been entered. Figure 1-4 shows the next menu, which requests that you select the types of hazards to be analyzed. This menu represents the current hazard models included in HAZUS-MH. It is recommended that you select all of the hazards when setting up your study region. Once you define your study region and select hazards, you cannot add more hazards as you progress. If you want to drop hazards later in the process, you can simply stop using the menus for those hazards in HAZUS-MH. It should be pointed out that your selection of hazards in HAZUS-MH is not related to Task 1.3, where you will identify all of the hazards of interest that threaten your study region. Figure 1-4: Selecting hazards. Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the Hazard Type dialog box, with checkboxes for selecting hazards. Sidebar: Note: It is important that adequate disk space be available before you start the aggregation process. The minimum recommended disk space is 10 GB, which will provide the capacity for three scenarios for a study region. Select a Level of Aggregation The next activity is to select an aggregation level, as shown in Figure 1-5. You can select the state, county, or Census tract level. HAZUS-MH allows aggregation at different levels, the smallest of which is generally the Census tract for the earthquake and hurricane modules, and the census block for the flood module. The aggregation level is either equal to or smaller than the study region. A smaller aggregation level provides more detail. The aggregation level represents the scale at which population and general building stock values will be evaluated to estimate losses for your risk assessment study (Step 4). Figure 1-5: Aggregation level menu. Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the Aggregation Level dialog box, with checkboxes for defining the study region at one of four aggregation levels. Figure 1-6 shows the menu list for selecting the state or states included in your study region. Only one state should be selected unless your study region crosses state lines. To select a state, simply click on the state’s name in the pull-down menu. To select multiple states, hold down the key and click on the names of all the states to be included. In Figure 1-6, the user has selected the State of Washington. When you have finished selecting the state or states, click on the “Next” button. Figure 1-6: State selection list. Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the State Selection dialog box, in which the state or states for the study region can be selected from a dropdown list. Alternatively, you can select the state or states in your study region by clicking on the “Show map” button and then on the applicable areas on the map shown in Figure 1-7. To select multiple states, hold down the key while clicking on the desired states. Click on the “Selection Done” button when you are finished to move to the next activity. Figure 1-7: Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the alternative, map-based state selection dialog box. After the state or states have been chosen, you will be prompted to select the relevant counties within each state included in the study region by clicking on the names of those counties in the menu, as shown in Figure 1-8. You can select multiple counties by holding down the key and clicking on the names of the desired counties. When you have finished selecting the counties, click on the “Next” button. Alternatively, you can click on the “Show map” button and choose the counties from a map of the state as shown in Figure 1-9. Click on the “Selection Done” button when you are finished to move to the next activity. Figure 1-8: County selection list. Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the County Selection dialog box, in which the county or counties for the study region can be selected from a dropdown list. Figure 1-9: County selection map. Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the alternative, map-based county selection dialog box. After a county or counties have been selected, a list of all of the Census tracts in each selected county will appear (see Figure 1-10). Alternatively, you can select the Census tracts that define your study region from the list of tracts or from a map (see Figure 1-11). Census tracts selected for the study region do not have to be sequentially numbered or adjoining. The map is useful when you know the areas of interest, but not all of the specific Census tract numbers of interest. Figure 1-10: Census tract selection list. Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the Census Tract Selection dialog box, in which the census tract or tracts for the study region can be selected from a dropdown list. Figure 1-11 Census tract selection map. Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the alternative, map-based census tract selection dialog box. When you have selected the Census tracts for your study region, click on the “Next” or “Selection Done” button, as applicable. A processing status window will appear and will indicate the progress of aggregation. At this point, you will be prompted to load a DVD-ROM containing the HAZUS-MH provided inventory data for your state(s) of interest. The DVD-ROM is provided with the HAZUS-MH software. Congratulations! You have now defined your study region and can proceed to create your base map. Sidebar: Reference: FEMA HAZUS-MH courses can help you learn more about using GIS to support HAZUS-MH. Additional information on HAZUS-MH training opportunities can be found at: http://www.fema.gov/hazus/tr_main.shtm. Create a Base Map of Your Study Region (Task 1.2) Once your study region is defined, you will use HAZUS-MH to create a base map that graphically presents the defined area. The base map should be shared with your risk assessment team to support hazard identification and to provide a common frame of reference throughout the risk assessment. The base map also is useful for describing your study region to stakeholders and for focusing the risk assessment team on identifying hazards. Base map layers might include the study region boundary, jurisdictional boundaries, and geographic frames of reference, including roads, water bodies, hospitals, and schools. Base Map Using HAZUS-MH Provided Data HAZUS-MH will include maps with features that are important to your study region. You may want to create several map layers showing different features for your intended audiences. You can create a base map showing HAZUS-MH provided data such as demographic or economic information derived from the most recent Census. You can also show buildings, roads, rivers, coastlines, and place names. The data layer functions in HAZUS-MH will help you map and view HAZUS-MH provided data. Base maps always should include a north arrow, legend, title, date, and scale. Base Maps Using Local Data Local data can be added to your HAZUS-MH base map to supplement provided data, establish location and main characteristics of key natural and physical inventories, and reflect features important to your community. HAZUS-MH runs from Environmental Systems Research Institute Inc.’s (ESRI’s) ArcGIS platform. Before local GIS data are imported into HAZUS-MH, they must be in a format compatible with ArcGIS. The GIS data also must be projected in the correct coordinate system. To be compatible with HAZUS-MH, data often must be converted and projected, as described below. Data Conversion. Local source data selected for use in the HAZUS-MH base map may be in hard copy or electronic format. Hard copy maps need to be digitized and converted to the ArcGIS format. A digitizing tablet will be required for this activity. For more information on the digitizing process, consult your tablet’s instruction manual. These electronic data will include electronic maps and data tables. Electronic data may have been developed using a number of software packages such as MapInfo, Intergraph, and AutoCAD. If you have a GIS layer that needs to be converted into the ArcGIS format, follow the directions below. 1. Open the ArcGIS folder and select the ArcToolbox icon. 2. Select “Conversion Tools” and then “Import to Shapefile” (see Figure 1-12). 3. Select the option that corresponds to your data. For example, if you are converting data from MapInfo to ArcGIS, you would select the “MapInfo (MIF) to Shapefile” option. 4. Select your source data file. For the example above, you would select the MapInfo file. 5. Select a prompted menu and choose the destination folder. This is the location where the new shapefile will be created. The folder’s name and location are not constrained by HAZUS-MH. You should develop a folder system that is clear to you and others on your team who may need to access this information. 6. Select “OK” in the menu box. Sidebar: Definition: Digitizer: A device used to convert hard copy maps into an electronic format. The digitizer consists of an electronic tablet that is overlain with the paper map. A puck is then used to trace the map features and electronic data are created. Figure 1-12: ArcToolbox data conversion utility. Graphic showing a screenshot of the folders in the ArcToolbox data conversion utility. Data Projection. All data used by HAZUS-MH must be in the same projection, or coordinate system. Your local base map data needs to be in the Latitude/Longitude (Lat/Long) coordinate system, (WGS84) datum, and in decimal degrees. If your data are not in the correct projection, follow the directions below. 1.Open the ArcGIS folder and select the ArcToolbox icon. 2. Select “Projections” and then “Define Projection Wizard (overlaps/grids/TINs)” (see Figure 1-13). 3. Select your shapefile by browsing to its location. 4. Select “Next,” and then select the coordinate system in which your shapefile resides. If you are unsure about your current data projection, view the metadata file. Typically, this file is named after your shapefile and has a “.met,” “.html,” or “.xml” extension. For example, if you had a soil map called “soils.shp,” the metadata file would be called “soils.html.” The metadata file should show the projection used. 5. Select “Next” and then “Finish.” You have now assigned the current projection to your data set. 6. Select “Projections” and then “Project Wizard (shapefiles).” 7. Select your shapefile by browsing to its location. 8. Select “Next,” and then browse to the folder where the new shapefile will be created. 9. Select “Next,” and then select the Lat/Long projection. 10. Select “OK” and then “Next” and your correctly projected shapefile will be created. Figure 1-13: ArcToolbox data projection utility. Graphic showing a screenshot of folders and files in the ArcToolbox data projection utility. Display Local Data on Your Base Map You can now bring your local base map data directly into your HAZUS-MH study region. Select “Add Layer” under “File” on the HAZUS-MH main menu, and browse to your local data (see Figure 1-14). Your data can be displayed on the base map using the same standard symbols that you use for other mapping purposes. All of the ArcGIS functionality is preserved when you bring the data into HAZUS-MH. Figure 1-14: Adding local base map data. Graphic showing a screenshot of the Add Data dialog box, which shows a list of local data that can be added to the base map. After all of the layers are visible and symbolized logically, select “View” from the main menu, then “Layout View.” A base map containing your study region will be generated with a title, description, legend, scale, date, and the HAZUS-MH logo. This layout can be used “as-is” or can be further developed and edited to complement other maps you create. To save your base map, select “File” from the main menu, then “Save.” Congratulations! You have now created your base map and can proceed to identify hazards of interest. Identify Hazards of Interest (Task 1.3) Task 1.3 will help you to identify hazards of interest in your study region and to focus on further risk assessment efforts. This initial list of hazards of interest is intended to ensure the risk assessment team has considered the range of likely hazards that could impact your study region. This list will typically be developed based on community input, the professional judgment of the team, and local knowledge of past hazard events. This list can be developed by collecting data, having meetings with knowledgeable personnel, and using your own information regarding hazards that are, or might become, priority concerns in your area. Your initial list of hazards will be used to document all of the hazards considered; those dropped from consideration in Step 1; and those carried forward for further evaluation under Step 2, Profile Hazards. This section presents an overview of various natural hazards that could occur in your study region. This section also discusses how you can manage your hazard data and provides a foundation for further study in Step 2. Potential Hazards of Interest and HAZUS-MH The general perception of natural hazards is that earthquakes occur in California, floods in many riverine and coastal locations, tornadoes in the Midwest, and hurricanes along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Although there is some truth to this perception as it relates to the highest probabilities for each hazard, hazard maps show that the entire United States is vulnerable to one or more of these primary natural hazards. Earthquakes are predominant in the West, but also threaten specific regions in the Midwest, Northeast, and Southeast. Riverine floods occur along rivers, largely but not exclusively in the Midwest, and coastal flooding is associated with storm surges caused by high winds. Flash floods caused by sudden, intense rainstorms may occur anywhere. Extreme winds are regional (e.g., hurricanes along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, the Caribbean, and the South Pacific; tornadoes typically in the Midwest; and downslope winds adjoining mountain ranges), but high winds can also occur anywhere. Hazards that may affect your study region are discussed below. The hazards include those that can be evaluated using HAZUS-MH and those that can be evaluated with HAZUS-MH support. Hazards that can be evaluated using HAZUS-MH are earthquakes, floods (coastal and riverine), and hurricanes; therefore, these three hazards are presented first. Step 2 provides a detailed discussion and sources of information on the hazards. Earthquakes The surface of the earth consists of solid masses, called tectonic plates, that float on a liquid core. The areas where separate plates meet each other are called faults. An earthquake is a sudden movement of the earth’s crust caused by the abrupt release of strain that has accumulated over a long period of time. Records show that some seismic zones in the United States experience moderate to major earthquakes approximately every 50 to 70 years, while other areas have recurrence intervals for the same size earthquake of about 200 to 400 years. Records also show that building inventories in 39 states are vulnerable to earthquake damage. Most of the well-known areas of strain, or faults, are located in the Western United States, where most recent earthquakes have occurred. However, the Eastern and Central United States are also vulnerable to devastating earthquakes. Earthquake risk is related to the following factors: a) ground motion; b) fault rupture under or near a building, often occurring in buildings located close to faults; c) reduction of the soil bearing capacity under or near a building; d) earthquake-induced landslides near a building; and e) earthquake-induced waves in bodies of water near a building (tsunami on the ocean and seismic seiche on lakes). Earthquakes are low probability, high-consequence events. Although they may occur only once in the lifetime of a particular asset, they can have devastating effects. Moderate earthquakes occur more frequently than major earthquakes. Nevertheless, a moderate earthquake can cause serious damage to unreinforced buildings (i.e., unreinforced masonry buildings, buildings constructed without seismic requirements, or buildings designed to obsolete standards), building contents, and non-structural systems, and can cause serious disruption in building operations. Major earthquakes can cause catastrophic damage, including collapse and massive loss of life. Earthquake fault rupture causes ground motion over a wide area. This ground motion acts as a powerful force on the building inventory. The most drastic effects occur chiefly near the causative fault where there is often appreciable ground displacement as well as strong ground shaking. As the shaking propagates to the surface, it may be amplified depending on the intensity of shaking, topography, nature of the rock, and, above all, by the surface soil type (earthquake damage tends to be more severe in areas of soft soils) and depth. Impact to the building can depend on the type of earthquake waves (i.e., whether they are quick and abrupt or slow and rolling). Structures subject to earthquake risk must be designed for higher force resistance if they are located on poor soils. Most structures are principally designed to resist the force of gravity, but resistance to earthquake forces requires specialized earthquake engineering. Horizontal earthquake forces cause rapid movement of the foundation and displacement of upper levels of the structure. When inadequately designed to resist or accommodate these earthquake forces, structures fail, leading to serious structural damage, and, in the worst case, total collapse. Moderate and even very large earthquakes are inevitable, although very infrequent, in areas of normally low seismic activity. Consequently, in these regions buildings are seldom designed to deal with an earthquake threat; therefore, they are extremely vulnerable. In many parts of the United States, the greatest earthquake risk is associated with buildings that were designed and constructed before the use of modern building codes. For many parts of the United States, this includes structures built as recently as the early 1990s. In other places, such as California, the earthquake threat is quite familiar and adequate building codes have taken this threat into consideration since the mid- 1970s. An earthquake is a primary hazard included in HAZUS-MH. In addition, hazard event data are included with the software. You can determine earthquake risk by using the data provided in HAZUS-MH. Floods (Coastal and Riverine) Flooding is a common hazard in the United States, affecting over 20,000 local jurisdictions. Several evaluations have estimated that 10 percent of the Nation’s land area is subjected to flooding. Some communities have very little land that is identified as exposed to flooding, although others lie entirely within the floodplain. Floods are fairly specific and predictable in their location, and effective design against floods is less a matter of design concept than of siting. A building can be located in such a way that floods will never be a problem; however, our floodplains are full of existing buildings. Flooding is a natural process that may occur in a variety of forms: long- duration flooding along rivers that drain large watersheds; flash floods that send a devastating wall of water down a mountain canyon; and coastal flooding that accompanies high tides and on-shore winds, hurricanes, and Nor’easters. Flooding is only considered a problem when human development is located in flood-prone areas. Problems can result, exposing people to dangerous situations and property to damage, but also disrupting the natural function of floodplains and redirecting surface flows onto lands that are not normally subject to flooding. The flood hazard can be characterized by a relationship between the depth of flooding and the annual chance of inundation to that depth. Depth, duration, and velocity of water are the primary factors contributing to flood losses. Other impacts associated with flooding that contribute to losses include channel erosion and migration, sediment deposition, bridge scour, and the impact of flood-borne debris. Sidebar: Reference: Manmade hazards are an increasing concern. FEMA has developed the Risk Management Series to help communities assess and address these hazards. Documents are available at: http://www.fema.gov/fima/rmsp.shtm Flood frequency studies define the flood hazard in terms of the chance that a certain magnitude of flooding is exceeded in any given year. What is commonly called the 100-year flood is not a flood that occurs every 100 years, but is a flood that has a 1 percent chance of occurring in any year. Flood magnitude is usually measured as discharge value, flood elevation, or depth. For example, the 100-year flood elevation is the elevation at the point of interest that has a 1 percent annual chance of being exceeded by floodwaters. Using the flood hazard frequency convention, flood hazard is defined by a relation between depth of flooding and annual chance of inundation greater than that depth. This relation is called a depth-frequency curve. Coastal flooding refers to the inundation of land areas along the oceanic coast caused by sea waters over and above normal tidal action. Coastal flooding is experienced along the Atlantic, Gulf, and Pacific coasts, and many larger lakes, including the Great Lakes. Coastal flooding is influenced by storm surges associated with tropical cyclonic weather systems (hurricanes, tropical storms, tropical depressions, typhoons), extratropical systems (Nor’easters), and tsunamis (surges induced by seismic activity). Coastal flooding also is generally characterized by wind-driven waves. Wind-driven waves affect reaches along the Great Lakes shorelines, where wind blowing across the broad expanses of water generate wind-driven waves that can rival those experienced along oceanic coastal shorelines. Some Great Lakes shorelines experience coastal erosion, in part associated with fluctuations in water levels. Riverine flooding is due to the accumulation of runoff from rainfall or snowmelt such that the volume of flow exceeds the capacity of waterway channels and therefore, water spreads out over the adjacent land. Riverine flooding flows downstream under the force of gravity. Inundation, duration, and velocity are functions of many factors, including watershed size and slope, degree of upstream development, soil types, nature and extent of vegetation, steepness of the topography, and characteristics of the storm (or depth of snowpack and rapidity of melting). Riverine and coastal flood hazards are primary hazards included in HAZUS-MH. You can determine riverine and coastal flood hazards risk by using the data provided in HAZUS-MH. Hurricanes A hurricane is a severe tropical storm that forms in the southern Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, or eastern Pacific Ocean under the following conditions: warm, tropical oceans; moist air; and light winds. If the right conditions last long enough, a hurricane can result and can produce violent winds, enormous waves, torrential rains, and floods. On average, six Atlantic hurricanes occur each year. When hurricanes move onto land, associated rain, strong winds, and large waves can damage buildings, trees, and cars. Hurricanes are grouped into five categories according to their prevailing wind speeds, with Category 5 hurricane winds exceeding 155 miles per hour (mph) and having a minimum sustained speed of 74 mph. High sustained winds may cause extensive structural damage to buildings and houses. These winds can also roll cars, blow over trees, and erode beaches (both by blowing sand and by blowing waves against the beach). Hurricanes can trigger storm surges, tornadoes, and extensive and damaging inland flooding. While storm surge is always a potential threat, more people have died from inland flooding associated with hurricanes in the last 30 years. Intense rainfall, as much as 10 to 12 inches in 48 hours, is not directly related to the wind speed of tropical storms. In fact, some of the greatest rainfall amounts occur from weaker storms that drift slowly or stall over an area. Inland flooding can be a major threat to communities hundreds of miles from the coast as intense rain falls from these huge tropical air masses. In terms of wind interaction with buildings, hurricanes create both positive and negative (i.e., suction) pressures. A particular building must have sufficient strength to resist the applied wind loads in order to prevent wind-induced building failure or damage. The magnitude of the pressure is a function of building exposure. Building exposure is based on characteristics of the ground roughness and surface irregularities in the vicinity of a building that influence the wind loading. Exposure can be explained in terms of the roughest terrain and the smoothest. Rough terrain includes urban, suburban, and wooded areas. Smooth terrain includes flat open terrain with scattered obstructions and areas adjacent to water surfaces in hurricane-prone areas. The smoother the terrain, the greater the wind loads. Important factors regarding building vulnerability include: -- Topography (abrupt changes in topography) -- Building height (relationship between the wind speed and the height of the building above the ground) -- Internal pressure (wind can cause either an increase in the pressure within the building, known as positive pressure, or it can cause a decrease in pressure, known as negative pressure) -- Aerodynamic pressures (interactions between the wind and the building affecting primarily the roof corners) Hurricanes are a primary hazard included in HAZUS-MH. Historic event data are included with the software. You can determine hurricane hazards risk by using the data provided in HAZUS-MH. Landslides Landslides are rock, earth, or debris flows on slopes due to gravity. They can occur on any terrain, given the right conditions of soil, moisture, and the angle of slope. Integral to the natural process of the earth’s surface geology, landslides serve to redistribute soil and sediments in a process that can include abrupt collapses or slow gradual slides. Landslides are a widespread geologic hazard and result in about $2 billion in damages and more than 25 fatalities annually. They pose a serious threat to highways and buildings and commonly occur in association with other major natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods. Landslides can be triggered by other hazards, but also can take place independently. Landslides can occur in developed or undeveloped areas, and in any area where the terrain was altered for roads, houses, utilities, buildings, or even for backyard lawns. Factors affecting landslides can be geophysical or manmade. The resulting slurry of rock and mud may pick up trees, houses, and cars, thus blocking bridges and tributaries and causing flooding along its path. Any area composed of weak or fractured materials resting on a steep slope can, and will likely, experience landslides. Landslides occur in all 50 states with varying frequency and more than half of the states have rates sufficient to classify landslides as a significant natural hazard. As discussed in Step 4, HAZUS-MH can support your exposure assessment of the landslide hazard. Tornadoes Tornadoes are one of nature’s most violent storms. A tornado can be defined as a rapidly rotating column of air extending from the base of a thunderstorm to the ground. In an average year, approximately 1,000 tornadoes are reported across the United States, resulting in 80 deaths and over 1,500 injuries. The most violent tornadoes, with wind speeds of 250 mph or more, are capable of tremendous destruction. Damage paths can be more than 1 mile wide and 50 miles long. Tornadoes can occur anywhere in the United States, but they are most common in the Great Plains region that includes parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska. Tornadoes are responsible for the greatest number of wind- related deaths each year in the United States. Tornadoes come in all shapes and sizes. In the southern states, peak tornado season is March through May; peak months in the northern states are during the summer. Tornadoes can also occur in thunderstorms that develop in warm, moist air masses in advance of eastward-moving cold fronts. These thunderstorms often produce large hail and strong winds, in addition to tornadoes. During the spring in the central plains, thunderstorms frequently develop along a “dryline,” which separates warm, moist air to the east from hot, dry air to the west. Tornado- producing thunderstorms may form as the dryline moves east during the afternoon hours. Along the front range of the Rocky Mountains, in the Texas panhandle, and in the southern high plains, thunderstorms frequently form as air near the ground flows “upslope” toward higher terrain. If other favorable conditions exist, these thunderstorms can produce tornadoes. Tornadoes occasionally accompany tropical storms and hurricanes that move over land. They are most common to the right and ahead of the path of the storm center as it comes onshore. As discussed in Step 4, HAZUS-MH can support your exposure assessment of the tornado hazard. Tsunamis Tsunamis are a series of very long waves generated by rapid, large-scale disturbances of the sea. Most tsunamis are generated by sea floor displacements resulting from large undersea earthquakes. Oceanographers often refer to tsunamis as seismic sea waves because they are usually the result of a sudden rise or fall of a section of the earth’s crust under or near the ocean. A seismic disturbance can displace the water column, creating a rise or fall in the level of the ocean above. This rise or fall in sea level is the initial formation of a tsunami wave. Tsunami waves can also be created by volcanic activity and landslides occurring above or below the sea surface. These types of activities produce tsunamis with much less energy than those produced by submarine faulting. The size and energy of these tsunamis dissipates rapidly with increasing distance from the source, thus resulting in more localized devastation. Tsunamis can quickly inflict great damage on shore areas near their source. Some tsunamis can cause destruction across an entire ocean basin within hours. Most tsunamis occur in the Pacific region, but they can occur in every ocean and sea. There have been tsunamis in most oceans of the world, but most notably in the Pacific Ocean. The coastline of Hilo, Hawaii, has seen inundation several times and a major earthquake in Alaska in 1964 resulted in a tsunami with a height of 6 meters in Crescent City, California, killing several people. Just like other water waves, tsunamis begin to lose energy as they rush onshore; part of the wave energy is reflected offshore, while the shoreward-propagating wave energy is dissipated through bottom friction and turbulence. Despite these losses, tsunamis still reach the coast with tremendous amounts of energy. Tsunamis have a great potential to cause erosion, stripping beaches of sand that may have taken years to accumulate and undermining trees and other coastal vegetation. Capable of inundating, or flooding, hundreds of yards inland past the typical high-water level, the fast-moving water associated with the inundating tsunami can crush homes and other coastal structures. Tsunamis may reach a maximum vertical height onshore above sea level, often called a run-up height, of 10, 20, and even 30 meters. As discussed in Step 4, HAZUS-MH can support your exposure assessment of the tsunami hazard. Wildfires A wildfire is an undesirable fire occurring in the natural environment and is a serious and growing hazard over much of the United States. Wildfires pose a great threat to life and property, particularly when they move from forest or rangeland into developed areas. An average of 5 million acres burns every year in the United States as a result of wildfires, causing millions of dollars in damage. Each year more than 100,000 wildfires occur in the United States, almost 90 percent of which are started by humans; the rest are caused by lightning. Weather is one of the most significant factors in determining the severity of wildfires. The intensity of fires and the rate with which they spread is directly related to wind speed, temperature, and relative humidity. Climatic conditions such as long-term drought also play a major role in the number and the intensity of wildfires. As discussed in Step 4, HAZUS-MH can support your exposure assessment of the wildfire hazard. Other Hazards Other hazards that may affect your study region include avalanches, coastal erosion, dam failures, drought, expansive soils, extreme heat, hailstorms, land subsidence, severe winter storms, volcanoes, and manmade hazards. For some of these hazards, the HAZUS-MH framework can support mapping of hazard areas and exposure assessments. Documenting Hazards of Interest Worksheet 1-1 provides a tool to help you list hazards of interest and historic data sources that are readily available. Worksheet 1-2 summarizes the hazards you explored and the hazards you decided to carry forward for additional analysis in Step 2. Worksheets 1-1 and 1-2 can be used as tools to explain hazards that impact the community to team members, decision-makers, and community stakeholders. Example 1-1 illustrates how Worksheets 1-1 and 1-2 were used for a FEMA pilot project in Austin, Texas. At this stage, you can mark potential areas of concern (e.g., areas where floods or tornadoes have occurred in the past) on your base map, either electronically or by hand-drawing the areas. Later, you can refine these maps or import hazard area maps as part of Step 2, Profile Hazards. Congratulations! You have now a list of preliminary hazards of interest in your study region. Summary During Step 1 you should have defined your study region, created a base map, and identified the potential hazards for your area. Table 1-1 will help you make sure you have completed these activities. Review the list below and add check marks in the third column where you have completed the activities or outputs indicated. Table 1-1: Identify Hazards Activities and Outputs Checklist Activity: Define your study region (Task 1.1) Output: HAZUS-MH study region with hazards selected • Defined study region • Data files aggregated at the proper level Activity: Create a base map of your study region (Task 1.2) Output: Base map with local GIS data incorporated into HAZUS-MH • Local data properly converted and projected • Base map with HAZUS-MH provided layers • Local data layers added to the base map Activity: Identify hazards of interest (Task 1.3) Output: Worksheet 1-1 (Identify Your Hazards) • List of hazards of interest for your study region • Include hazard event descriptions and corresponding list of data sources, as available Output: Worksheet 1-2 (Summary of Hazard Identification) • Summarize hazards of interest • Summarize the data you collected for those hazards Complete any missing items in your checklist, and then continue to Step 2. GO TO STEP 2: PROFILE HAZARDS Worksheet 1-1: Identify Your Hazards To complete Worksheet 1-1, first check the box in the “Hazard of Interest” column next to each potential hazard that could occur in your study region. If you are unsure about a hazard, select it at this stage of the process. Hazard or Event Description - For hazards for which you have some preliminary data, list that information below. This will serve as a starting point to identify the hazards that affect your community and to fill out Worksheet 1-2. Information you may list below includes the type of hazard and any summary information on the dates of hazard events, numbers of injuries, costs, areas impacted, and damages and losses that occurred (see example). The example is shown as an entry in a table with four columns: Potential Hazard, Hazard of Interest, Description, and Source of Information. The Potential Hazard column includes entries for a variety of hazards (shown in bold type, italics, or bold italics) and allows for the inclusion of additional hazards in rows titled "Other." In the example, the Potential Hazard is hurricane and the following information has been entered in the Description and Source of Information columns: Description: Hurricane Hugo. Sept. 21-22, 1989. Charleston, SC. Struck Francis Marion National Forest, about 20 miles northeast of the city. Highest storm surge near Cape Romain (15-20 feet, 10-12 feet near the Harbor). Left wide path of damage with hurricane conditions as far inland as Charlotte, NC. Highest winds were in northern Charleston County where Category 4 conditions were experienced. Winds of 78-100 mph recorded at Charleston Airport. Much higher downtown (120 mph). Highest wind speed recorded by Coast Guard Cutter in Cooper River (138 mph winds). Over $7 billion in damages and 82 deaths associated with this event. Source of Information: NOAA web site, historic newspapers Notes for the table: HAZUS-MH includes hazard event data for the earthquake and hurricane hazards. Use the rows titled "Other" to specify other hazards of interest in your area. Hazards in bold are discussed further in Step 2. Hazards in italics are included in HAZUS-MH. WORKSHEET 1-2: SUMMARY OF HAZARDS IDENTIFICATION Hazard or Event Description - Worksheet 1-2 will help you summarize findings from Worksheet 1-1. Use column A to indicate the initial hazards identified by the team. Use column B to show hazards of interest carried forward for further study based on group discussion and available information regarding the relative risk of each hazard in your study region. Summarize event data in the table. Worksheet 1-2 consists of a list of hazards and a table. The list of hazards includes associated checkboxes in two columns: A and B. The table lists the same hazards under a column of the same name and includes four columns in which the years of occurrence, number of events, impacts (e.g., damage, deaths, injuries), and available data sources and maps can be recorded. The hazards listed in the table are shown in bold type, italics, or bold italics. Notes for the table: Hazards in bold are discussed further in Step 2. Hazards in italics are addressed as HAZUS-MH models. EXAMPLE 1-1: IDENTIFY HAZARDS SUMMARY WORKSHEET FOR AUSTIN, TX This example summarizes the hazard identification and selection process conducted by the risk assessment team in Austin, TX (a pilot project community). The table summarizes preliminary data available to support further analysis of each of the hazards of interest. The example is shown as a completed version of Worksheet 1-2, in which data have been entered about hazards specific to the Austin study area: Flood (Riverine), Hurricane, Dam Failure, Fuel Pipeline Breach, Urban Fire, HazMat Release (fixed site), Hailstorm, Tornado, and Severe Winter Storm. Step 2: Profile Hazards Overview The second step in the risk assessment process is to profile the hazards of interest in your study region and consider which ones are priorities based on their likelihood of occurrence, potential magnitude, and past impacts on your community. This step will help you: (1) profile and prioritize hazards for further study, (2) communicate concerns and risks to the public and to decision makers, and (3) develop hazard scenarios that you will use in Step 4, Estimate Losses, for selected hazards. Profiling your hazard is a key element in the preparation of your risk assessment. HAZUS-MH will assist you in this process. Task 2.1 helps you access data residing in HAZUS-MH. Task 2.2 helps you to perform a data gap analysis to understand the quality and relevance of your data and need for additional data collection. Task 2.3 helps you to identify the sources for additional data collection. Task 2.4 provides information on how to prepare hazard profiles and prioritize the hazards that may affect your community. Worksheet 2-1 at the end of this step can be used to identify your hazard data. Worksheets 2-2 and 2-3 can be used to summarize and prioritize your hazards, respectively. The tasks and outputs for Step 2 are shown in Figure 2-1. Figure 2-1. Step 2 tasks and outputs Step 2: Profile Hazards Tasks: 2.1: review HAZUS-MH provided hazard data 2.2: perform a data gap analysis 2.3: collect additional hazard data (if needed) 2.4: profile and prioritize hazards Outputs: --updated hazard data --completed profiles --hazard map summary (Worksheet 2-1) --hazard profile (Worksheet 2-2) --hazard prioritization (Worksheet 2-3) Review HAZUS-MH Provided Hazard Data(Task 2.1) HAZUS-MH provides information that can help you profile earthquake, flood, and hurricane hazards. The text below will help you access and review this data. It will also help you understand hazard characteristic data used to assess risk for these three hazards. Sidebar: Definition: Hazard Profiling Terms Hazard event – A specific occurrence of a particular hazard. Frequency – How often a type of hazard occurs. Probability – A statistical measure of the likelihood that a hazard event will occur. Duration – How long a hazard event lasts. Magnitude – A measure of the severity of a hazard event. The magnitude of a given hazard event is usually determined using technical measures that are specific to the hazard. Intensity – A measure of the effect of a hazard event at a particular place. Hazard areas – Geographic areas within your study region where specific hazard events are likely to occur or be more intense. Access HAZUS-MH Provided Earthquake Data HAZUS-MH provided data includes historic data on the location and magnitude of earthquakes that have occurred in the U.S. The HAZUS-MH historical scenario menus can be used to view the historic earthquake event data. The steps to access this data include: 1. Open the earthquake module and under the Hazard menu, select “Scenario” on the drop-down menu (see Figure 2-2) Figure 2-2: Earthquake screen. Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the earthquake screen, with "Scenario" selected on the Hazard dropdown menu. 2. Select the “Define a new scenario” option shown in Figure 2-3. Then select the “Historical epicenter event” option under Seismic hazard type (see Figure 2- 4. Figure 2-3: Ground motion menu. Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the Earthquake Hazard Scenario Selection dialog box, with "Define a new scenario" selected. Figure 2-4: Earthquake scenario selection. Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the Seismic Hazard Type Selection dialog box, with "Historical epicenter event" selected. 3. Click on the “Next” button, and a window displaying the earthquake epicenter database will appear (see Figure 2-5). The database contains epicenter details, including the fault name, state, magnitude, fault depth (in kilometers), event date, epicenter latitude and longitude, and source of event information. Figure 2-5: Earthquake epicenter database. Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the Epicenter Event Database list. 4. View earthquake events that have occurred in your particular state for your assigned study region. Click on “State ID” to select the entire column, then right click your mouse while you have the column highlighted and select the “sort” option from the menu. Scroll down to your state to view the historic events. 5. Map historic epicenters by right clicking the mouse button on a specific event record. Select “Map” on the option menu and a window will open with historical epicenters and your study region plotted. The historical epicenters are not physically labeled on the map (see Figure 2-6), but the underlying details of the information can be obtained by selecting a specific epicenter and then using the select button on the toolbar. Figure 2-6: Epicenter event map. Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the Epicenter event map, with the location of the select button indicated. 6. Position your mouse directly over the epicenter of interest and click the left mouse button once. Click on “Selection Done” to return to the database list, where the selected epicenter record will be highlighted. 7. Add to the information you recorded in Step 1, Identify Hazards, by recording key data from the earthquake epicenter database on Worksheet 1-1 (e.g., year, fault, location, epicenter, and magnitude). You will use this information to further profile the earthquake hazard as part of Tasks 2.3 and 2.4. In addition to historic event data, several local characteristics are important to the earthquake hazard and are addressed by HAZUS-MH provided data. These characteristics include: soil type, liquefaction and landslide potential, and water depth. HAZUS-MH includes a menu that shows you the assumptions used in a HAZUS-MH Level 1 analysis. The assumptions are summarized below: --The soil type is assumed to be “stiff.” Definitions of this soil type are included in the user manuals for the earthquake hazard (Appendix B of the HAZUS- MH Earthquake User Manual). --Liquefaction potential is assumed to be zero (i.e., liquefaction is not assumed to be a concern). --Landslide potential is assumed to be zero (i.e., no potential for landslides is assumed). --Water depth is not included in the provided data. Water depth is the depth to groundwater and is only important for the earthquake hazard analysis if liquefaction potential exists. Sidebar: Note: Accessing the map feature also will show you epicenters that may affect your study area, but lie in other states. Record these events as well. Based on these assumptions, HAZUS-MH will provide a Level 1 analysis for your risk assessment. Access HAZUS-MH Provided Flood Data Unlike earthquakes and hurricanes, floods are frequent occurrences in most areas of the country. HAZUS-MH does not currently provide historic flood event data. HAZUS-MH does provide stream gauge data that shows high water marks reached during flood events; however, those data do not indicate the year that each high water level was reached. Flood zone maps you will integrate to support flood analyses address the probability that a flood of a particular intensity will occur in a given period of time. For this hazard, instructions in Task 2.3 will help you collect the hazard data needed to run HAZUS-MH and profile the flood hazard for your study region. Sidebar: Note: As you proceed, remember to keep records of information you have found and where you found it. Your records can include data tables from the HAZUS-MH provided data, copies of documents, maps, notes regarding to whom you talked and when you talked to them, and useful website references. Access HAZUS-MH Provided Hurricane Data HAZUS-MH provided hurricane data include historical data on the locations, frequencies (dates of events), and magnitudes of hurricanes in the United States. The HAZUS-MH historical scenario menus can be used to view all of the historical hurricane event data included in HAZUS-MH. The steps to access the data for the hurricane hazard include: 1. Under the Hazard menu, select “Scenario” on the drop-down list (see Figure 2- 7). Figure 2-7: Hurricane screen. Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the hurricane screen, with "Scenario" selected on the Hazard dropdown list. 2. Select “Next” from the Welcome to the Hurricane Scenario Management Wizard. 3. Select the “Historic” option in the scenario operation menu. 4. Click on the “Next” button, and a window (see Figure 2-8) displaying a list of historic hurricane events, including the hurricane name, year, peak wind gust (in mph), states affected, and landfall states will appear. Figure 2-8: Hurricane scenario operation. Graphic of a computer screenshot showing a list of historic storms and associated data. 5. Select the “Region Filter” button on the top right hand side of the screen. The table will now display only the hurricane events that have affected your study region. Record these events on Worksheet 1-1; you will use this information to support further profiling of the hurricane hazard as part of Task 2.3. The HAZUS-MH hurricane module also includes information on local characteristics that will impact how much damage is incurred should a hurricane occur. This information includes regional surface roughness and tree coverage for your study region. These maps have been developed from national land use and land cover maps. You can view these coverage layers in HAZUS-MH using the parameters function under the analysis option. Based on this information, HAZUS-MH will provide a Level 1 analysis for your risk assessment. Congratulations! You have now accessed hazard data provided in HAZUS-MH. The data that you have accessed and reviewed will help you to prepare your risk assessment and determine if you need further information to support your written hazard profiles. By now, you should have gained an understanding of the main hazards in your area and you may have determined additional information you wish to obtain for applying the varying levels of HAZUS-MH analysis. The next step is to consider the data you have against the data you may need. Perform a Data Gap Analysis (Task 2.2) The data gap analysis is performed to consider the data you have compared to the data you may want for your risk assessment. Three areas of potential data gaps will be considered: 1. Hazard data for HAZUS-MH hazard analysis. Job Aid 2-1 in Appendix D summarizes the types of hazard maps or characteristic data needed for each level of analysis for HAZUS-MH. 2. Hazard data to map other hazards. This includes hazard area or characteristic maps you would like to collect for hazards other than earthquakes, floods, or hurricanes. If you wish to map a hazard area in HAZUS-MH, you will need to obtain or create certain hazard characteristic maps. 3. Hazard data not used for mapping but useful for written hazard profiles (all hazards). This includes available historic data on events, impacts, severity, intensity, and the probability of future hazard events. These three areas of consideration are described below. Hazard Data for HAZUS-MH Hazard Analysis In order to determine additional local data that you may need for your risk assessment, first, review Job Aid 2-1 in Appendix D. This Job Aid shows the hazard data that HAZUS-MH requires for various levels of analysis. Consider what level of locally-added hazard data is realistic given your risk assessment timeline, resources, and needs. If you decide to run a HAZUS-MH Level 2 analysis, Worksheet 2-1 will help you review the hazard characteristic information you need. Complete Worksheet 2-1 at the end of this step. First check the box in the “Hazard of Interest” column for each hazard that you identified as a hazard of interest on Worksheet 1-1. The hazard profile maps and data that will support analysis using HAZUS-MH are shown. These maps and data also will help you prepare your written hazard profiles (Task 2.4). After completing Worksheet 2-1, for the earthquake, flood, and hurricane hazards, you will have a better understanding of the data you have and the data you may need to run a HAZUS-MH Level 2 or Level 3 analysis. Also, you will have an idea of the amount of work and resources that may be required to obtain additional, local data. At this point, you may decide to substitute large segments of HAZUS-MH provided data or you may become aware that a more complex level of HAZUS-MH analysis is not feasible. In the latter case, you may choose to use HAZUS-MH provided data in combination with limited local data or run a HAZUS-MH Level 1 analysis initially and work toward a Level 2 analysis as local data become available. Remember, a HAZUS-MH Level 1 analysis may be sufficient for your mitigation plan in terms of earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes. Sidebar: HAZUS software: Some communities are developing partnerships with a wide range of parties through HAZUS-MH User Groups (HUGs). A HUG is a group of stakeholders who work together to develop local data and apply HAZUS-MH. Your regional HUG can be a great source of information for your risk assessment. It can assist you with local data collection, refinement, and preparation for input into HAZUS-MH. Check with your local planning contacts or FEMA regional office to see if a HUG exists in your region. Additional information on HUGs can be found on FEMA’s website at http://www.fema.gov/hazus/us_main.shtm. Hazard Data to Map Other Hazards For hazards not included in HAZUS-MH, a range of maps also can be useful to help profile and evaluate the hazards. Continue with Worksheet 2-1 for the other hazards listed. You will not be able to estimate losses for these hazards using HAZUS-MH, but you can map the hazard areas to support the needs of your risk assessment. In some cases, you can estimate exposure for these hazards using HAZUS-MH. For evaluating reasonable exposure, see Chapter 4 of this How-To Guide. Hazard Data Not Used for Mapping but Useful for Written Hazard Profiles (All Hazards) For all hazards, you will need data to help you consider each hazard’s overall profile and priority in your region. Worksheet 2-2 shows the categories of data that will be useful. For HAZUS-MH hazards, you can start with historic event data you obtained in Task 2.1 and research further information about these events. Evaluate Available and Desired Data For your hazards of interest, review the unchecked boxes in Worksheet 2-1 to potentially identify your data gaps for the hazard area and characteristic maps. As part of Task 2.3, you may want to work to obtain missing mapping data that you have determined is warranted. You will also collect additional data to supplement the analysis for your risk assessment. All communities face limited budgets and have mandated schedules for their planning efforts. Therefore, your risk assessment team will have to decide how much additional data you can collect based on available funding and schedules. The basis for pursuing or not pursuing further data collection should be sound, defensible, and documented. Sidebar: Reference: FEMA is implementing the Multi-hazard Mapping Initiative (MMI) to encourage data sharing, support standards development, and provide access to hazard event and hazard map data. You can learn more about this initiative and see what data are available for your study region at: http://www.hazardmaps.gov. When considering the level of HAZUS-MH analysis to use, you must consider your schedule, the resources available, and the ultimate end uses of the data. When evaluating these factors, remember that local data collected to support HAZUS-MH can also support other local planning, emergency, and mapping needs. When evaluating additional data collection needs, consider the following questions: --Do you feel the hazard area, characteristics, and profile data are the “best available data” that you can obtain for your risk assessment? --Are there other experts or sources that you should contact to make sure that your data are current and to feel confident that you are using the “best available data”? --Are the missing data related to a hazard that you feel is very important to your community? --Are there alternate approaches that you can use to address data gaps if you do not have enough data about an important hazard? Based on your team’s data gap analysis, you may want to collect additional hazard data that you feel are important and reasonable to obtain. Task 2.3 provides information on general and specific sources for additional hazard information. Congratulations! You have now performed a data gap analysis and can proceed to collect additional hazard data (if needed). Collect Additional Hazard Data (If Needed) (Task 2.3) At this point, you may have decided to collect additional data. Much of the required data may be available already, but it is often located in a number of places and can be in various formats that are not readily usable by HAZUS-MH. Other data, such as a landslide potential map, may need to be created. Both general and specific information sources for hazard event and characteristic data are discussed in this section. Much of this data is being developed and consolidated through efforts such as FEMA’s MMI. For this task, you will perform the following steps to obtain additional data: (1) access general hazard data sources, and (2) access specific hazard data sources. Access General Hazard Data Sources Data on natural hazards that might threaten your study region are available from various sources. However, the quality of data can vary widely between communities and between organizations within the communities. During the data collection process, it is important that you maintain a detailed log of your sources (including contact names, dates of telephone conversations or personal meetings, and Internet site addresses) and the quality of the data collected to document in your mitigation plan. Use Worksheet 2-1 at the end of this chapter to help you track the hazard event data you collect. When possible, electronic data should be obtained to facilitate implementation of HAZUS-MH. You will use specific hazard event dates and locations (obtained from HAZUS-MH for earthquake and hurricane or from other sources) as a starting point to search further for additional data. Based on FEMA’s field pilot projects, the following sources of information are typical hazard data sources. Newspapers and Other Historical Records These records will often contain the dates of major hazard events, the magnitude of the events, the damage incurred, and references to other past natural disasters in your study region. This type of information is often available at local historical societies or in public libraries. Existing Plans and Reports Plans and documents developed for a range of purposes may have information on natural hazards in your community or state. For example, many states already have developed mitigation plans, hazard identification reports, or risk assessment reports. State transportation, environmental, emergency management, and public works departments may have prepared reports or plans that contain relevant information. Local comprehensive plans, land use plans, and capital improvement plans, as well as building codes, land development regulations, and flood ordinances also can contain hazard provisions that indicate the presence of local hazards. When plans are identified, you can review them to identify hazards that may occur in your study region or that have occurred in the past. Experts in Your Community, State, or Region Hazard information is generally available from representatives of the government, colleges and universities, and the private sector. The State Hazard Mitigation Officer usually has access to the most current and accurate data regarding hazards in a state. Local floodplain managers; public works department employees; and engineering, planning and zoning, and transportation department personnel also maintain information about natural hazards. Emergency response personnel such as police and fire department employees or local emergency management staff also are excellent sources of information on past hazard events. In addition, many state agencies, including water, natural resources, geological survey, and emergency management agencies, have detailed knowledge about the nature and extent of hazards in your state. Local university departments, including planning, landscape architecture, geography, and engineering departments, may have hazard maps, recent research studies, or other useful data. Local businesses that provide hazard-related services are also a good source of data. Internet Sites The Internet sites of many Federal, state, and local government agencies provide access to data regarding natural hazards and their frequency, magnitude, and locations (for example, and ). In addition, some sites provide general information about the nature of particular hazard events, the probability of their occurrence, and how hazards are measured. Other websites feature state- specific or area-specific information about hazards (such as the historical occurrence of hazard events and the probability and expected severity of potential hazard events). General search engines also can be searched for specific events or key words and often provide a good starting point with information for your written profiles and areas for further research. Sidebar: Note: The Internet can support searches on specific hazards and even hazard events. You can complete a key word search and obtain information quickly and at low cost. For example, if HAZUS-MH indicated a CA earthquake in your area in 1906, you could search “California Earthquake 1906” and obtain information about that event to support your written hazard profile. Access Specific Hazard Data Sources Hazards are often described and characterized using data regarding historic events and maps. Some of these data are available in electronic and hard copy forms from local sources and over the Internet. To run a Level 2 analysis, or to obtain information on hazards not included in HAZUS-MH, you will collect additional hazard data and revisit Worksheet 2-1 to update it with the information you collect. The “unchecked” maps on Worksheet 2-1 will now be located, to the extent that you determined to be reasonable, as part of Task 2.3. The maps needed to support the earthquake, flood, and hurricane modules of HAZUS-MH will be used to model losses when you estimate losses. Maps shown on Worksheet 2-1 for other hazards also can be imported into HAZUS-MH. You can then use these to support your public involvement and planning work or to estimate exposure as described in Step 4, Estimate Losses. The text below provides information on specific data sources that can help you obtain the hazard maps and data that you have decided you may need for your risk assessment. The hazards described below include earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, landslides, tornadoes, tsunamis, and wildfires. Earthquakes Job Aid 2-1 (Appendix D) summarizes data recommended for the three levels of analysis of HAZUS-MH. Job Aid 2-2 provides sources of data for the earthquake and other hazards. The HAZUS-MH provided data for the earthquake hazard makes a number of general assumptions for a number of characteristics that can impact earthquake losses. Level 1 analysis will provide a risk assessment based on these assumptions. If you wish to change those assumptions based on local data, you need to provide HAZUS-MH with the appropriate data to perform Level 2 or Level 3 analyses. For these two levels of analysis, you can obtain the four data maps discussed below; these maps update your study region’s soil type, liquefaction susceptibility, and landslide potential, and water depth. For a summary of how to obtain these maps see Table 2-1. Table 2-1: Earthquake Hazard Characteristic Data Sources This table lists types of maps and their sources, as summarized below: Soil Surveys and Maps: Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA) Liquefaction Maps: Applied Technology Council Summary of Regional Maps Landslide Maps: National Landslide Information Center (USGS) Groundwater Depth Maps: Various natural resource agencies; State Engineer’s Offices (State-specific; Data from registered wells in state); USGS Groundwater Site Inventory (contains data from more than 850,000 federal wells) Soil Maps Local geological data in the form of soil maps depict the effects of ground motion on local soils, landslide, and liquefaction. Soil maps describe the surface soils in your area. In order to improve the analytical capabilities of the HAZUS-MH earthquake model, local soil data must replace the general assumptions made in HAZUS-MH. You can refine the data in HAZUS-MH in two ways: (1) changing the soil type assumption provided with HAZUS-MH, or (2) importing a soil map into HAZUS-MH. The most refined analysis is produced by the second option. Soil maps of high resolution (1:24,000 or greater) or lower resolution (1:250,000) are usually available from geologists, regional USGS offices, state geological agencies, regional planning agencies, or local government agencies. The geological maps typically identify the age, depositional environment, and material type for a particular mapped geologic unit. The soil maps in HAZUS-MH require National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP) soil classification types (Appendix B of the HAZUS-MH Earthquake User Manual). If you have soil survey or other soil classification maps, a geologist can assist in converting data to the required classification scheme. Liquefaction Susceptibility Map A Level 1 analysis in HAZUS-MH assumes that your area does not have the potential for soil liquefaction. In areas with a potential for liquefaction, a HAZUS-MH Level 1 analysis may underestimate the potential damage for your study region. You can change this assumption in HAZUS-MH by (1) changing the liquefaction potential parameter, or (2) importing a liquefaction map. The second option provides the most refined analysis. Liquefaction susceptibility maps, usable for analysis in HAZUS-MH, exist only for a limited number of areas. For example, the Applied Technology Council (ATC) has published a summary of available regional liquefaction hazard maps. If liquefaction susceptibility maps are not available for your region and liquefaction is a potential hazard in your area, a geologist or a geotechnical engineer will need to provide input on the potential for liquefaction or develop a liquefaction map for you. The level of effort required will depend on the size of your region and the desired resolution of the contours. A simple map may require only a month, but a detailed map at a high resolution (1:24,000 to 1:50,000) may require a separate study that could take several months or years to complete. In any case, look for maps available in a digital format to assist your effort. Landslide Potential Map Landslide hazard maps show the extent of land area subject to the threat of landslides, including areas where landslides have occurred in the past, where landslides are likely to occur now, and where they could occur in the future. Landslide potential maps contain detailed information on the types of landslides, the extent of the slope subject to failure, and the probable maximum extent of ground movement. These maps can be used to predict the relative degree of hazard in a landslide area. You can change the HAZUS-MH assumption of no landslide potential by (1) changing the landslide potential parameter, or (2) importing a landslide map. The second option provides the most refined analysis. Water Depth Map If liquefaction is a concern in your area, water depth data are also important. The water depth data estimate the vertical distance from the land surface to the top of the groundwater aquifer (i.e., the groundwater-saturated layer). You can change the HAZUS-MH provided depth assumption by (1) changing the water depth potential parameter, or (2) importing a water depth map. The second option provides the most refined analysis. These maps most likely already exist at a state level and can be obtained from state environment or natural resource agencies that manage water resources or control groundwater pollution. Local university hydrogeology departments or regional water authorities may also have current detailed information on groundwater depths in readily available formats. Sources of Earthquake Hazard Profile Information Table 2-1 lists national sources of digital data that can help you prepare your hazard profile. Example 2-1 at the end of this chapter presents an example earthquake hazard profile, compiled from information similar to sources you may access and use. Job Aid 2-2 also lists data sources. Manage Your Earthquake Hazard Data Create a hazard map directory on your hard drive if you have not done so already. Download the digital maps and place the maps in the hazard map directory. Also, be sure to update Worksheet 2-1 as you proceed. These maps or data from them will be integrated into HAZUS-MH during Step 4, Estimate Losses. Floods (Coastal and Riverine) HAZUS-MH provides three levels of analysis. Job Aid 2-1 (Appendix D) shows the different hazard data needs to implement a Level 1, 2, or 3 analysis for the flood hazard. The Level 1 analysis level requires the least input by the user. A Level 2 analysis improves the results by considering additional data that are readily available or can be converted to the model requirements. For a Level 2 analysis, users will employ the Flood Information Tool (FIT) to pre-process their flood hazard data. All components of flood analysis using HAZUS-MH can be performed at this level, with the exception of velocity analysis. A Level 3 analysis is an advanced data and models analysis requiring detailed engineering and hazard studies and is not addressed in this How-To Guide. Sources of Flood Hazard Profile Information FEMA has prepared Flood Insurance Studies (FIS) for flood-prone communities. These FISs contain information on historic flood events, flood problems, and other flood information available for local areas. A FIS contains a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), which is an official map of a community that shows areas at risk from flooding. FEMA has created FIRMs for more than 19,000 communities in the U.S. as part of the FIS program. In addition to base flood zones, or 100-year floodplains, which are defined as areas with a 1 percent chance of flooding in any given year, the FIRMs illustrate coastal high hazard areas, floodways, and 500-year floodplains, which are areas with a 0.2 percent chance of flooding in any given year. Another element of the FIS is a graph, also known as a flood profile, which shows potential flood elevations plotted along waterways. This information will help delineate the boundaries of the floodplain in your study region. The data categories needed to run the HAZUS-MH flood module include ground elevation data, floodplain boundary, and flood depth maps. Example sources of hazard data are shown in Table 2-2 and are discussed below. The information in the table shows the requirements for different levels of HAZUS-MH analysis. Job Aid 2-2 also lists data sources. Table 2-2: Flood Hazard Data Needs and Sources Map: Ground Elevations, as Digital Elevation Model (DEM) Required for: Riverine and coastal flood (Level 1, 2, or 3, and Flood Wizard) Source: http://seamless.usgs.gov/; Microsoft TerraServer Map: Shoreline Maps Required for: Coastal flood (Level 2 or 3) Source: Local maps to update HAZUS-MH map; NOAA Coastline and Bathymetric GIS Data Map: 100-Year Stillwater Elevation Required for: Coastal flood (Level 2 or 3) Source: FEMA; USGS Surface Water Resources Map: Floodplain Boundary Required for: Riverine flood (Level 2 or 3, and Flood Wizard) Source: FEMA On-Line Hazard Maps; ESRI On-Line Hazard Maps Map: Base Flood Elevation Required for: Riverine flood (Level 2 or 3) Source: FEMA On-Line Hazard Maps Ground Elevations All three levels of HAZUS-MH analysis will require you to download ground elevation data. The flood wizard discussed in Step 4 also requires these data. Ground elevation data can be in several formats, including a Digital Elevation Model (DEM), a Triangular Irregular Network (TIN), or contour lines. If your data is a TIN or available as contour lines, you will need to use the FIT to integrate the data into HAZUS-MH. A DEM does not need to be modified. A basic DEM may be downloaded at the USGS web site, http://seamless.usgs.gov/. A higher resolution DEM might be obtained from your local mapping office. The USGS also sells higher resolution DEMs in some parts of the country; visit the USGS web site for more details. The FEMA MMI discussed earlier also provides access to Q3 data and DFIRM maps (see floodplain boundary below). Sidebar: Definition: The Flood Information Tool (FIT) is part of the HAZUS-MH family of products provided by FEMA. It is used to integrate local flood maps into HAZUS-MH. The FIT is detailed in Step 4. Shoreline Map and 100-Year Stillwater Elevation Local data are required for a more refined coastal flood analysis (Level 2 or 3). A shoreline map is provided with HAZUS-MH, but if the shoreline has changed over time, you will want to update that map with local data. The 100-year stillwater elevation map is usually available for coastal areas as part of the FIS. Coastal hydrologic data are also available from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Sidebar: Note: The FEMA Map Modernization Initiative (MMI) is updating flood data across the country. This will provide digital FIRM (DFIRM) data for the entire country and supply the ground elevation, floodplain boundary, and base flood elevation data needed for the riverine and coastal flood analyses. Floodplain Boundary and Base Flood Elevation Both the floodplain boundary and the base flood elevation data for your area can be derived from the FIRM. Using a copy of the FIRM, you will evaluate the 100- year flood. FEMA is currently converting FIRMs to a digital format. The DFIRM product will allow the creation of interactive, multi-hazard digital maps that can be used with HAZUS-MH. Digital quality level 3 flood data (Q3) also are available for 1,200 counties in a CD-ROM format. The Q3s are digital representations of certain features of FIRMs and can be used with HAZUS-MH. The Q3s are used for hazard mitigation planning, floodplain management, land use planning, natural resource and environmental analysis, and insurance target marketing. They are designed to provide the general locations of Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). The main difference between the Q3s and the official paper FIRMs is that the Q3s do not include the following: --Hydrographic features (streams, rivers, lake, and coastal shorelines) --Base Flood Elevations (BFEs) --Cross-section lines --Roads, road names, or address ranges --Locations, elevations, and descriptions of benchmarks and elevation reference marks Sidebar: HAZUS Software: The flood model uses the term “case study” instead of scenario because the selection of an “arbitrary event” is not possible. The flood model allows you to study your entire region as a case study or to focus on particular, smaller areas of concern. To request copies of the FIRM for your study region, or to identify areas that are prone to coastal hazards and storm surge, contact your National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) coordinator or floodplain manager. These specialists usually work in the planning, building, engineering, or natural resource departments of local and state agencies. Coastal communities and states with a coastline also should determine areas of coastal flooding, which are characterized as V zones and A zones, oriented approximately parallel to the shoreline. Sidebar: Reference: Copies of FIRMs can be requested (1) by calling the FEMA Map Service Center at 1-800-358-9616 (2) by accessing the Internet at: http://www.fema.gov/maps/ (3) by contacting a FEMA regional office Additionally, FIRM information is available at: http://www.fema.gov/fhm/ Side Bar: Definition: Coastal Flood Zone Classifications “A” Zone – An area with an elevation below the Base Flood Elevation (BFE), where the waves are expected to be less than 3 feet during the 100-year flood. “V” Zone – An area with an elevation below the BFE, where waves are expected to be greater than 3 feet during the 100-year flood. V zones are subject to coastal high hazard flooding. Verify that the FIRM is Current and Complete Floodplains are susceptible to changes. From time to time, FEMA, communities, or individuals may find it necessary to update, correct, or otherwise change the FIRM. Review the FIRM to determine whether any of the following circumstances apply to your study region: --Significant construction has occurred within the floodplains already identified on your FIRM. --Upstream communities have had significant development since the FIRM was published. --Inundation patterns indicate that the FIRM boundaries are no longer accurate. --A major flood control project has been completed in your community or upstream of your community. --Changes have impacted topography in, or adjacent to, mapped floodplains. If there has been a coastal storm since the date of the FIRM, the coastline and hazard zones may no longer be accurate. Coastal storms can either erode or extend the coastline, possibly causing the flood hazard zones to change. Consult your local floodplain coastal zone manager for further advice. Information can be found at http://edc.usgs.gov/index.html. Sidebar: Note: If your study region is not within a 100-year floodplain, you may elect to concentrate on other hazards because your flood risk is, by definition, relatively small. However, you may still have flood risks associated with one or more of the following, which are not shown on the FIRM: • Drainage areas of less than 1 square mile • Sewer backup • Drainage system backup • Dam breaches • Stormwater runoff problems Sources of Flood Hazard Profile Information In addition to the characteristic data required to support HAZUS-MH, you will need to research historic flood events and the potential for flooding in your area to support your written flood profile. You can use the general and specific sources listed in this section to collect those data. Use Job Aid 2-2 as a starting point to identify other sources of data to help you profile background and local conditions, probability of occurrence, damage, and hazard areas (floodplain boundaries for your area). Manage Your Flood Hazard Data Create a hazard map directory on your hard drive if you have not done so already. Download the digital maps found at the sources listed above and place the maps in the hazard map directory. These maps will be integrated into HAZUS- MH in Step 4. Keep the other data you have collected to help you complete Worksheet 2-2, as part of Task 2.4. Use of the Flood Macro Wizard FEMA developed a Flood Macro Wizard (Flood Wizard) that facilitates the preparation of flood risk assessments. The Flood Wizard allows you to automatically process flood data to evaluate exposure and develop loss estimates for the inventory in your study region. To use the Flood Wizard, you will (1) install the Flood Wizard, (2) execute the flood program, (3) identify the inputs, (4) run the analysis, and (5) view the results. 1. To install the Flood Wizard. Insert the Flood Wizard CD-ROM and wait for the auto run feature to start. The Flood Wizard installation menu will appear. Click “Next” to proceed. The installation menu will prompt you for a destination directory (see Figure 2-9). Type another directory name if the default directory is not your preference. Click “Next” to proceed with the installation. Installation progress is indicated by the status bar in the center of the screen. The installation is complete when the “Next” option becomes available (see Figure 2-10). Click “Next.” Figure 2-9: Flood Wizard destination directory. Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the Start Copying Files dialog box. Figure 2-10: Flood Wizard installation complete. Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the InstallShield dialog box, with the Next button indicated. 2. To execute the Flood Wizard program. Open a flood study region in HAZUS-MH. It is not necessary to have run the flood analysis for the region; setting up the study region is all that is required. Select “Start” from your Windows menu, then select “Programs” and “FEMA Risk Assessment System.” Click on the Flood Wizard icon (see Figure 2-11). The Flood Wizard menu will now be displayed (see Figure 2-12). Figure 2-11: Flood Wizard program location. Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the Programs list, with the location of the Flood Wizard highlighted. Figure 2-12: Flood Wizard menu. Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the Flood Wizard. The menu options include: a) Flood Data – these options allow you to input your local flood data and DEM. b) Inventory – these options allow you to view the general building stock, including building exposure, content exposure, total exposure, and building count for your study region. Changing the HAZUS-MH provided inventory is discussed in Step 3. c) Parameters – these options allow you to change the damage functions and show the specified data maps in your study region. d) Analysis – this option allows you to run the analysis. e) Results – these options allow you to see the risk assessment results of a 100- and 500-year event in your study region. Results include building exposure, content exposure, total exposure, and building count for the general building stock in the floodplain. It also provides building loss, content loss, and total loss for the general building stock. 3.To identify the inputs. You will need two data sets, (1) a flood boundary map in the form of Q3 data, a DFIRM, or a user defined map and (2) a DEM. The flood boundary map is required to be in the shape file format. The DEM should be in the same grid format used to run the flood model. The DEM downloaded from the USGS web site has a vertical distance in meters while the flood wizard requires a vertical distance in feet. A GIS specialist will be able to convert the DEM. Select “Flood Data” from the main menu, then “Q3 Map” (see Figure 2-13). You will be asked to identify the location of the Q3 shape file. Browse to the location and select the file. Select “Flood Data” from the main menu, then “DEM Data.” You will be asked to identify the location of the DEM. Browse to the location and select the file. Figure 2-13: Flood Wizard data menu. Graphic showing a computer screenshot of the Flood Wizard data menu, with "Q3 Map" selected. Manage Your Flood Wizard Hazard Data Create a hazard map directory on your hard drive if you have not done so already. Download the digital maps found at the sources listed above and place the maps in the hazard map directory. These maps will be integrated into HAZUS- MH in Step 4. Keep the other data you have collected to help