Starkville’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems Enhance Hurricane Relief Efforts

Starkville’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems Bring Relief After Hurricanes

Every second counts when disaster strikes, and in the chaotic aftermath of a hurricane, getting accurate information about unsafe areas can literally be a lifesaver. Enter unmanned aircraft systems, or UAS, which are proving to be game-changers for first responders racing against the clock to aid those in need. With the ability to transmit real-time video and data, these high-tech devices are giving rescue teams an edge when navigating the rubble left behind by Mother Nature.

The Valuable Eyes in the Sky

“When a hurricane roars through and affects an entire state or even half of one, no matter how many rescue workers are on the ground, it’s tough to know the complete situation,” said Bryan Farrell, the interim director at the Raspet Flight Research Lab at Mississippi State University. “That’s when our larger UAS can swoop in, provide instant updates, and really help those who need it most.”

Just last month, when Hurricane Helene laid waste to parts of the Southeast, the Raspet Flight Research Lab partnered with the Northern Gulf Institute to deploy their largest unmanned aircraft. They flew into Georgia, where pilots and scientists were ready to assist in the relief efforts. Equipped with high-definition cameras and advanced sensors, the aircraft became the eyes on the scene, relaying critical information about flooding and structural damage straight to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

From Research to Real-World Applications

Interestingly, this significant application of UAS technology began as a research project back in 2017. Initially, the goal was to capture images of flooding during extreme weather events to improve inundation maps for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). However, life often takes unexpected turns.

“We never imagined our research could contribute to emergency responses, but during the intense flooding, we discovered a way to enhance our drones with extra cameras,” explained Jamie Dyer, NGI’s associate director and a professor of geosciences. “This enabled us to provide real-time feeds that could assist emergency managers in making swift decisions.”

Quick Decision-Making with Real-Time Data

One of the standout features of UAS is their ability to pivot quickly based on immediate needs. “Imagine someone from FEMA asking us to focus on a specific building on the ground,” Dyer continued. “In a matter of moments, we can task the camera to get a visual, offering them crucial situational awareness.”

After a five-day mission in Georgia, where the team returned with invaluable data, some pilots chose to stay behind voluntarily to distribute supplies in the area. This spirit of cooperation showed how versatile the UAS can be, even if they were not operating directly under FEMA’s umbrella.

The Strength of UAS in Disaster Scenarios

These unmanned aircraft possess another benefit: their ability to stay in the air for long stretches while collecting and transmitting a wealth of vital information. The star player in Raspet’s fleet is the Teros, boasting a wingspan of 44 feet and the capacity to remain airborne for over 20 hours. This drone isn’t just any aircraft; it’s one of only three ever made, making it an exclusive tool in the arsenal of disaster response.

“The high-resolution images allow rescue teams to assess damage from a bird’s-eye view, which is crucial under these circumstances,” Farrell said. “Even a simple video feed can help first responders navigate through collapsed structures and other dangers, further showcasing how effective these drones can be.”

A Solution Beyond Satellites

Often, satellites provide imagery to map disaster zones after a storm, but UAS take it a step farther. “Satellites can show a broad array of damage, but they can’t get up close to the action,” Farrell added. “Drones, however, can zoom in on the specifics, showing finer details that are imperative for recovery.”

The Endless Potential of UAS Applications

The possibilities for what UAS can accomplish in a disaster setting are extensive. Whether it’s monitoring rising floodwaters or identifying the safest evacuation routes, the equipment proves to be “an asset in the air” that can adapt as circumstances change.

“We can assess how deep floodwaters are, discover buildings at risk, and even locate individuals needing rescue,” Dyer said enthusiastically. The chief advantage is speed; getting timely information allows first responders to act without delay. “With quick access to important data, decisions can be made sooner, potentially saving lives—and hours of confusion.”

In times of chaos, having real-time, reliable information is crucial. The integration of unmanned aircraft systems into emergency management highlights how technology can contribute considerably to public safety and disaster response.