Case Studies

Solution ODM collaborated with Esri Canada to develop a Common Operational Picture (COP) – a single display of information that can be shared by many levels of command. Using ArcGIS Online Services, a wide variety of data sources were pulled together to create a true to life visual of the fl ood situation. This included satellite imagery, data from CanVec, (a cartographic product provided by Natural Resources Canada) and geospatial data from the Manitoba Land Initiative (MLI). Environment Canada's Web site was 'screen scraped' on a regular basis for the latest weather conditions and forecasts and the Web site was also referenced to continuously gauge stream fl ows. Real-time weather data and topographical information was combined to predict future outcomes and trigger evacuation events. A multitude of layers were developed and displayed to represent personal care homes, EMS facilities, helicopter landing zones, hospitals, ring dykes, ice jams, broken bridges and ambulances. Using intuitive symbology, these layers were easily interpreted and allowed users to zero in on problem areas for effective analysis. Affected road segment data was extracted from the Medical Transportation Coordination Centre (MTCC) and incorporated into the COP to communicate road closures. Benefi ts The COP fused valuable data from a wide variety of sources to produce actionable information. This allowed for collaborative planning during one of the most severe natural disasters in Manitoba's history. In operation 12-24 hours per day, the COP enabled ODM to conduct thorough data analysis to optimize mitigation and effectively allocate resources. Intuitive symbology and real- time data empowered ODM to provide effective support to operations on the ground and quickly solve challenges such as ice jams and road closures. The consolidation of data into a common mapping tool allowed ODM to quickly shape predictions that would inform 20-30 critical decisions each day. In addition to serving as a powerful decision-making and problem-solving tool, the COP was leveraged during Ministerial Briefs with the Assistant Deputy Minister to explain and justify emergency management planning. The ability to communicate effectively meant that operational response times were greatly reduced and ODM could focus on taking action to ensure the safety of Manitoba residents. Moving Forward ODM will integrate more data sources into the COP including a recently purchased public alert communication system. They hope to use the tool to monitor ambulances and bed counts in cases of emergency. Common Operational Picture provides situational awareness during Manitoba's Red River Flood | Esri Canada 2 The interactive application's EMS station locator. One of many layers used to develop an effective response strategy. A snapshot of the Red River and several robust tools including a service area locator, stream gauge updater and links to live weather stations. "Esri Canada's Common Operational Picture exceeded my expectations. It allowed us to align all of our goals into a single platform and be fully operational quicker than I ever imagined possible." Gerry Delorme Director, Offi ce of Disaster Management Manitoba Health

• Cover