My research delves into the physical, social, and policy dimensions of disasters. I focus on how climate change is altering the characteristics of the ecosystem and extreme weather events, and the subsequent challenges for emergency and public health management. Additionally, I investigate communities’ vulnerabilities to tsunamis triggered by earthquakes and submarine landslides, to strengthen communities’ preparedness and evacuation planning. I collaborate with communities, emergency managers, policymakers, and politicians to develop comprehensive plans for adaptation, mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. The work I do is primarily focused in Puerto Rico, and small island states, where I engage directly with local stakeholders to understand the unique risks they face, learn from, and co-produce solutions with them to strengthen islands’ disaster resilience. Driven by a commitment to scientific innovation, communication, and teaching, I work with fellow physical and social scientists to support practitioners and foster the next generation of leaders in emergency management.
PS. Disasters are not natural.