HAZUS (Hazards U.S.) is a methodology developed by FEMA with the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) to model economic losses and damage to building and infrastructure.  Communities can use HAZUS to provide a basis for the development of mitigation efforts, emergency preparedness, and planning for response and recovery.

HAZUS’ loss estimates are based on scientific and engineering knowledge of the effects of natural disasters.  HAZUS originally was developed as a model for predicting earthquake damage, but has been expanded to examine wind and flood losses.  Information about the program can be found at http://www.fema.gov/hazus/.  Claire Drury, the HAZUS Program Manager, kindly provided me with an update on its status.  

The HAZUS-MH (multi-hazard) methodology is predicted to be available in late spring 2003.  It will include a flood module as well as a revised earthquake, new flood and preview hurricane wind loss estimation modules.  The coastal flood module will be included in the first service release of HAZUS-MH scheduled for summer 2003.

HZUS-MH will feature three levels of analysis.
Level 1 will give a rough estimate based on a nationwide database.  Level 2 provides more accurate and customized predictions.  It requires additional data and hazard maps which likely will be provided from the interested community.  Level 3 analysis produce the most accurate estimates and usually requires the assistance of technical expertise such as geotechnical and structural engineering.  Level 3 analysis makes it possible to examine the results of special conditions such as a dam break or a tsunami.  

The updated earthquake module in HAZUS MH will include the September 2002 National Hazard Maps, updated historical catalogue of magnitude 5 or greater earthquakes, Project –02 attenuation functions, and a module to analyze single and group building mitigation

The Hurricane module will continue to be enhanced from 2003-2005 to include hurricane storm surge hazards and treatment of transportation and utilities.  Based on projected funding levels, the finalized Hurr cane module should be available in mid-2006.

The HAZUS-MH will also be fast running, enabling its use in real time to support response and recovery efforts following natural disasters.  The development and implementation of HAZUS-MH will provide communities with a valuable tool for preventing, mitigating and responding to natural disasters in order to save lives and property.