Application of remote sensing and GIS to emergency planning and decision making support related to volcanic hazard: Vesuvio's eruption

The aim of this work has been the assessment of the contribution provided by satellite Remote Sensing integrated with a GIS in supporting the public authority involved in emergency planning related to volcanic hazard. Vesuvio is an active volcano in quiescent situation: its most recent eruption was in March 1944. The susceptibility of the area to volcanic hazard is strongly characterized by an high population density together with a considerable concentration of industrial installations. Two reference events were chosen on a scientific basis derived from the past eruption history of Vesuvio: the first involving falling ashes and lapilli, the second related to lava flows. Satellite data from Landsat TM and Spot were used for synoptic and multitemporal observations in order to obtain updated information about land use and urban development. Data concerning urban settlings, transport industries, road network, hazard installations, vulnerable sites and mathematical models of Vesuvio's eruption have been inserted, as several information layers, into a GIS. A contribution is also provided in preventive and protective measures including evacuation planning, removal of dangerous substances from storage and processes, safe standby or industrial plant stop. Finally volcanic hazard susceptibility maps were obtained from the logical integration of the information in the GIS. This allowed the definition of accident scenarios, and the assessment of possible consequences for human health and environment. Land modifications make necessary to update constantly the emergency plan related to the volcanic hazard in order to mitigate the effects of a supposed eruption. A database structure like a GLS, easily updating, based on remote sensing, can provide an effective support to competent authorities.