GIS is becoming more of an important technology in a sector that complex due to increased threats (such as national security and climate change), more people moving into areas that are vulnerable to natural disasters, and even greater demands on already stretched resources. Providing the best tools to develop effective, efficient plans and capabilities to assist those in need on a global scale requires that risks and hazards be accurately assessed in order to understand what vulnerabilities exist and to develop effective preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery systems.