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The Resourceful uses of Technology in Katrina and Tsuname represents a turning point in the Web's Vital involvement


How to use this map

1. Enter address, city, state in the address box and click Find -OR - drag map with mouse or click on compass in the upper left to pan and use the in/out buttons above to zoom.

2. Click a camera icon to view before and after images (not available in all areas).

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  • Latest Post Latest Post by bkendall

Dani AI

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Good points from the original post and from and — this thread shows why maps mattered in 2005 and why they still matter for response coordination. Below are practical, developer- and volunteer-focused suggestions that extend the conversation without repeating the map instructions already posted.

Design and data model (keep this simple, machine-readable, and timestamped): each damage report should carry lat/lon, ISO timestamp, type, severity, limited image attachments, and a verification flag. Example minimal payload:

{
  "id":"report-0001",
  "lat":29.9553,
  "lon":-90.0802,
  "timestamp":"2005-09-01T14:30:00Z",
  "type":"flood",
  "severity":4,
  "images":["after1.jpg"],
  "reporter":"@Volunteer123",
  "verified":false,
  "notes":"roof collapsed; standing water on 2nd floor"
}

UX and engineering tips: make the reporting form mobile-first and one-screen, capture GPS from the device or let users drop a pin, and require a timestamped photo when possible. For map performance use bounding-box queries on the server and client-side marker clustering. Offer export in GeoJSON/KML so responders can ingest layers into their tools. Integrate optional layers for shelters, donation centers, and housing lists — as observed, multiple channels help when combined.

Operational cautions and quick checklist: do not rely on unverified reports for life-or-death routing; add a lightweight verification workflow (trusted volunteers or agency flags). Minimize collection of personal data and display contact info only with consent. Archive snapshots of layers (time-stamped exports) for accountability. If imagery is missing, collect ground photos with EXIF/GPS and a short form entry — that often fills gaps faster than waiting for updated aerial tiles.

Member Avatar for bkendall

I think there has been a lot of valuable contributions that have come from Katrina like people being able to donate online, ebay autions, blogs and even sat radio and tv setting up channels to be used for communication. So your right technology can certainly help out in times of need.

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Online Donations
Online Relocation Housing Directories
Real-time News Updates
Global Blogs


Just imagine if this technology was around in the mid 1940's - how different FATE would have been for so many.

Member Avatar for bkendall

too bad we can't both go back to say 1935 and invest heavily in those technologies.

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