ROLE OF WATER MANAGEMENT IN DISASTER PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE

Abstract

A comprehensive understanding of community water issues and vulnera- bilities is essential for effective disaster preparation, with planning and response linked to sound water management practices. This research focused on into the rela- tionship between water management performance and catastrophe impact, covering diverse scenarios such as floods, earthquakes, droughts, storms, and dam collapses. Data collection was done through primary and secondary sources. The analysis em- ployed descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression techniques, revealing com- plex data patterns that shows the potential of robust water management measures to reduce disaster damage. Key components of community preparation include early warning systems, contingency planning, development of water-resilient infrastruc- ture, facilitating timely evacuation and precautionary measures. Early warning sys- tems contribute significantly to disaster preparedness by utilizing water management techniques for monitoring variables, such as water levels and rainfall. Comprehensive community plans should encompass emergency water, sanitation, and hygiene measures with detailed contingency plans specifying the strategic deployment of wa- ter tankers in the event of water outages. Investment in water-resilient, flood- and storm-resistant facilities strengthens overall disaster resilience. Water management remains crucial for emergency water supply, restoration, and the prevention of water- borne illnesses after a catastrophe. Emergency measures encompass the use of water tankers, bottled water, and filtration systems to ensure the provision of safe drinking water in compliance with regulations. Post-catastrophe, communities systematically assess infrastructure damages, restore water supply and treatment facilities through repairs, and rigorous water quality evaluations. Mitigating sewage and pollutant con- tamination is vital to prevent waterborne infections, emphasizing the importance of clean drinking water and sanitation education. This study emphasized the indispensa- ble role of water management in disaster preparedness and response. Effective water management strategies significantly reduce disaster susceptibility and enhance recov- ery. In conclusion, water management methods contribute substantially to community resilience by aiding in disaster planning, response, and recovery