Because of this lack of basic data, theoretical research has been largely restricted to calculations based on unverified postulates concerning the phenomena involved and on attempts to evaluate them by the available empirical data. Although studies of this kind have led to a better understanding of the phenomena, they have not led to the development of any outstandingly successful prediction systems.

The report contains an adaptation of a unique storm-surge forecasting technique developed by Dr. C.P. Jelesnianski. This technique results in a computed storm surge profile at the inner boundary of an artificial standard basin seaward of the coast. The profile is derived from nomograms based upon a standard storm passing over a standard basin. Thumb rules and guidelines are presented in the publication for subjectively modifying the computer storm surge height as it moves shoreward of the artificial basin boundary, to fit the natural conditions of a particular coastline. Major advantages of this system are its applicability to almost any locale, its adaptability to data normally available to the field forecaster and the speed with which the forecast may be modified to remain current with natural fluctuations of the storm.

Learning from the Impacts of Superstorm Sandy summarizes first results from studies of Superstorm Sandy, including: tide gauge measurements of storm surge, stable isotope variation in precipitation, analysis of the effect of beach nourishment among other factors on structural damage, and comparison with past storms through sediment analysis. This book gives a multi-dimensional treatment of scientific results of studies of Superstorm Sandy, and it is a valuable reference for oceanographers, coastal geologists, climatologists, dynamic meteorologists, paleotempostologists, sedimentary geologists, geomorphologists and emergency managers who need to better understand the storm and its effects in order to be prepared for similar events in the future. - Summarizes first results from studies of Superstorm Sandy - Gives a multi-dimensional treatment of scientific results of studies of Superstorm Sandy

The Great Sea Island Storm of 1893 details human courage and perseverance in the face of the second most fatal hurricane in US history.

"The objective of this report is to identify and establish a roadmap on how to do that, and lay the groundwork for transforming how this Nation- from every level of government to the private sector to individual citizens and communities - pursues a real and lasting vision of preparedness. To get there will require significant change to the status quo, to include adjustments to policy, structure, and mindset"--P. 2.

Hurricane- and coastal-storm-related losses have increased substantially during the past century, largely due to increases in population and development in the most susceptible coastal areas. Climate change poses additional threats to coastal communities from sea level rise and possible increases in strength of the largest hurricanes. Several large cities in the United States have extensive assets at risk to coastal storms, along with countless smaller cities and developed areas. The devastation from Superstorm Sandy has heightened the nation's awareness of these vulnerabilities. What can we do to better prepare for and respond to the increasing risks of loss? Reducing Coastal Risk on the East and Gulf Coasts reviews the coastal risk-reduction strategies and levels of protection that have been used along the United States East and Gulf Coasts to reduce the impacts of coastal flooding associated with storm surges. This report evaluates their effectiveness in terms of economic return, protection of life safety, and minimization of environmental effects. According to this report, the vast majority of the funding for coastal risk-related issues is provided only after a disaster occurs. This report calls for the development of a national vision for coastal risk management that includes a long-term view, regional solutions, and recognition of the full array of economic, social, environmental, and life-safety benefits that come from risk reduction efforts. To support this vision, Reducing Coastal Risk states that a national coastal risk assessment is needed to identify those areas with the greatest risks that are high priorities for risk reduction efforts. The report discusses the implications of expanding the extent and levels of coastal storm surge protection in terms of operation and maintenance costs and the availability of resources. Reducing Coastal Risk recommends that benefit-cost analysis, constrained by acceptable risk criteria and other important environmental and social factors, be used as a framework for evaluating national investments in coastal risk reduction. The recommendations of this report will assist engineers, planners and policy makers at national, regional, state, and local levels to move from a nation that is primarily reactive to coastal disasters to one that invests wisely in coastal risk reduction and builds resilience among coastal communities.

A comprehensive guide to managing and mitigating natural disasters Recent years have seen a surge in the number, frequency, and severity of natural disasters, with further increases expected as the climate continues to change. However, advanced computational and geospatial technologies have enabled the development of sophisticated early warning systems and techniques to predict, manage, and mitigate disasters.Techniques for Disaster Risk Management and Mitigation explores different approaches to forecasting disasters and provides guidance on mitigation and adaptation strategies. Volume highlights include: Review of current and emerging technologies for disaster prediction Different approaches to risk management and mitigation Strategies for implementing disaster plans and infrastructure improvements Guidance on integrating artificial intelligence with GIS and earth observation data Examination of the regional and global impacts of disasters under climate variability