My research delves into the physical, social, and policy dimensions of disasters, focusing on how climate change is altering the characteristics of the ecosystem and extreme weather events, and the subsequent challenges for emergency management.
I study the meteorological dynamics of Atlantic tropical storms, particularly how warmer ocean temperatures increase their rainfall. I also examine how this interacts with human factors, such as uncontrolled urbanization, which amplifies flooding risks for communities while having an impact on human health due to potential airborne disease outbreaks.
Additionally, I study the characteristics of tectonic plates, with a particular emphasis on the Caribbean region. This to understand potential threats to local communities, particularly from tsunamis triggered by earthquakes and submarine landslides. The goal is to identify strategies for safeguarding communities through seismic-resistant infrastructures and urban plans that account for projected risks.
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.