Monday, January 25, 2010

NGS Supports Relief Efforts in Haiti

On January 16, the Federal Emergency Management Agency's National Response Coordination Center requested NOAA's assistance in acquiring high-resolution aerial imagery of portions of Haiti impacted by the recent devastating earthquake. The National Geodetic Survey's (NGS) Remote Sensing Division and the Office of Marine and Aviation Operations aircraft operations center began data collection on Jan. 17 and will continue with the effort until all requirements are met. Imagery and associated products are being used to support detailed damage assessment, locate and digitize footprints of major demolition projects necessary for long-term recovery and rebuilding, and preserve a high-resolution record of the initial post-disaster state to assess recovery efforts. In addition, the imagery supports the long-term Geographic Information Systems needs of the U.S. Agency for International Development, the United Nations, and the on-scene international volunteer community. The imagery also augments the short-term needs of the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency and the Department of Homeland Security field assets. To date, the team has collected 3,298 images that are being used by emergency responders and will continue to support detailed damage assessment and long-term recovery and rebuilding in Haiti.

NOAA's press release "NOAA Produces Images of Haiti for First Responders":
http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2010/20100119_haiti.html

For more information, contact Eric W. Berkowitz.