Identifying relevant volunteered geographic information about adverse weather events in Trondheim using the CitizenSensing participatory system

Abstract

The study set out to investigate how the experience of creating a map-based participatory system might help identify what is needed to support the production of relevant volunteered geographic information (VGI) about urban areas exposed to impacts of adverse weather events in Trondheim, Norway. This article details the systematic approach used to collect VGI, starting from the active engagement of end users during the design and development process of the CitizenSensing participatory system, through using the system in two VGI campaigns, up to the examination of the collected data. Although the VGI examination identified exposed areas in Trondheim, for instance, those that are likely to accumulate surface water from heavy rains or meltwater, the experience gained from the use of the CitizenSensing system helped to identify some critical points regarding the production of relevant VGI. Potential practical implications justify the need for VGI. For instance, in the case of Trondheim, relevant VGI may result in better planned municipal interventions regarding city infrastructure for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers, increased public awareness and access to local knowledge about areas exposed to inundation. The study also confirmed the need for adequate system components for VGI vetting and exploration in the post-collection stage to obtain a comprehensive insight into collected VGI.

Participatory Mapping for Enhancing Flood Risk Resilient and Sustainable Urban Drainage: A Collaborative Approach for the Genoa Case Study

“…Among the license-free platforms, OpenStreetMap is one of the most promising ones to create an open digital map that can be used locally or virtually [77]; some authors [78] also download data directly from social networks (e.g., Facebook and Twitter). However, there are also licensed web applications developed ad hoc, such as CitizenSensing, designed by Opach et al [79]. Participants can upload data, along with a textual description and a photo taken directly on site, onto a single shared map, whose access and revision can be easily controlled by the process facilitators.…”

Towards a Volunteered Geographic Information-Facilitated Visual Analytics Pipeline to Improve Impact-Based Weather Warning Systems

“…Extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall and flooding, are expected to increase in frequency and intensity as a result of climatic changes, leading to negative societal consequences [1,2]. Preparedness for extreme weather events, including knowledge and capacity to monitor and assess their local impacts, are important aspects of increase societal resilience [3,4]. Therefore, the prediction of extreme weather events, assessment of their impacts in urban environments, and implementation of adaptive actions have become a priority for local and regional authorities worldwide [5,6].…”