NPS Deploys IMT with sUAS to Support Hurricane Helene Recovery in NC
The destructive power of Hurricane Helene wasn't enough to stop the National Park Service (NPS) from prioritizing rapid recovery on the Blue Ridge Parkway (BLRI). A key player in this success story? Uncrewed Aerial Systems, also known as drones.
Drone Technology to the Rescue:
Following Hurricane Helene's landfall in September 2024, the BLRI faced extensive damage. Roads were blocked, communication infrastructure was hindered, and a thorough damage assessment was crucial for efficient recovery efforts. That's where the NPS's sUAS (small Uncrewed Aerial Systems) module came in. The National Park Service Eastern Incident Management Team (EIMT) was deployed in response. Once the team was mobilized and on location, the EIMT requested a small Uncrewed Aerial System (sUAS) module to gather information quickly and safely related to damage incurred at the park.
Benefits of Utilizing UAS During Disaster Recovery:
Rapid Damage Assessment: Drones provided quick and comprehensive aerial views of the impacted areas, allowing park personnel to assess damage to roads, bridges, trails, and infrastructure. This information helped them prioritize resources and plan recovery efforts efficiently.
Improved Safety: By sending drones into potentially hazardous areas, the NPS minimized risks for first responders on the ground.
Data Collection and Sharing: The sUAS module captured high-resolution images and videos, providing valuable data for park staff, the Incident Management Team (IMT), and even future disaster response efforts.
Enhanced Communication: Real-time data from drones facilitated clear communication and collaboration between on-site responders and emergency management personnel.
Long-Term Benefits and a Look Ahead:
The NPS's successful use of drones during BLRI recovery highlights the potential of this technology for disaster management within government agencies. Here's what this means for the future:
Increased Investment: Positive experiences like this could encourage greater investment in UAS technology and training programs for public safety personnel.
Standardized Practices: The BLRI case study can inform best practices for drone use in disaster response situations across various government agencies.
Improved Disaster Response Efficiency: As drone integration becomes more standardized, future disaster recovery efforts can benefit from faster assessments, improved communication, and safer operations.
Hurricane Helene's devastation was met with a force of innovation. The NPS's successful deployment of drones during BLRI recovery sets a positive precedent for the future of UAS in government disaster response. By embracing this technology, public safety agencies can enhance their capabilities, save time and resources, and ultimately, help communities recover more effectively.
Source: https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/uas-module-supports-blri-2024.htm
