Challenge
Areas recently affected by wildfires are particularly susceptible to debris flows during rainstorms. It is important to provide debris flow information so that communities recovering from wildfire are aware of the added risks.
Solution
The New Mexico Earth Data Analysis Center is developing a debris flow application to make information more accessible.
Outcome
The debris flow application will allow users to access studies from U.S. Geological Survey, the Nature Conservancy, and other agencies or organizations that have created models for debris flow. It will allow users to view the debris flow risk post-wildfire and download the models.
It also includes resources for local communities to obtain information about debris flows and approaches to mitigate damage, such as ring barriers. In addition, information is provided about mudflow coverage available as part of FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program.
Benefit
Having access to debris flow models improves understanding of the hazard and support predictive analysis to increase public safety post-wildfire.
Lessons Learned
Project underway
Risk MAP Phases
This project involved the following Risk MAP phases:
- Risk Awareness and Mitigation Outreach
- Resilience
National Mitigation Investment Strategy Connections
GOAL 1: Show how mitigation investments reduce risk
- Recommendation 1.2 – Increase mitigation investment by building the capacity of communities to address their risks
GOAL 2: Coordinate mitigation investments to reduce risk
- Recommendation 2.1 - Make risk information more available and easier to use
GOAL 3: Make mitigation investment standard practice
- Recommendation 3.1 – Engage communities to adopt and enforce up-to-date building codes
Resources
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