An academic seminar exploring how artificial intelligence (AI) and digital twin technologies could support tsunami evacuation planning in Malta, has been hosted by the Seismic Monitoring and Research Group (SMRG) within the Department of Geosciences at the University of Malta.

Entitled “Beyond Static Plans: A Dynamic Approach to AI-Supported Tsunami Evacuation Planning,” the seminar was presented by Ruth Drake and Ria Sen, who are currently pursuing an executive degree in AI for Public Services, offered jointly by the Polytechnic Colleges of Milan and Madrid.

The research examines how Malta, despite having no recent living memory of a tsunami event, can strengthen its preparedness for this potentially high-impact coastal hazard.

The study focuses on Eastern Malta, using tsunami simulations generated through GeoClaw and integrating the results into ArcGIS to explore how AI capabilities can help identify potential evacuation zones.It was explained that the research considers several challenges relevant to Malta, including population density, seasonal variations in tourist numbers, constrained road networks and public awareness of tsunami hazards.

The SMRG said that beyond its practical application, the study proposes a transferable framework for developing AI-supported preparedness tools in other coastal regions where historical disaster experience and available data may be limited.

The group also explained that the Mediterranean is exposed to tsunami hazards originating from several tectonically active regions, making preparedness and effective evacuation planning important considerations for coastal communities, including Malta.

The seminar provided an opportunity to discuss the potential role of emerging technologies in supporting disaster preparedness and strengthening institutional approaches to managing low-probability high-impact hazards.

The event formed part of the Seismic Monitoring and Research Group’s wider commitment to promoting earthquake and tsunami awareness, research and preparedness in Malta and the wider Mediterranean region.

Ruth Drake is a senior user researcher with extensive experience in digital transformation in the public sector, currently working with the UK’s National Health Service. Ria Sen is an experienced United Nations disaster and climate risk management professional, specialising in technology resilience. This seminar was delivered in an academic capacity.

Photos: Seismic Monitoring and Research Group

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