Volume 17, Issue 4 (9-2025)
jorar 2025, 17(4): 242-251 |
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Karimi Kivi H, Zamani E. The Role of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Diverse Stages of Disaster Management: A Narrative Review. jorar 2025; 17 (4) :242-251
URL: http://jorar.ir/article-1-1045-en.html
URL: http://jorar.ir/article-1-1045-en.html
Urmia University of Medial Sciences, Miandoab Schools of Medical Sciences, Miandoab, Iran
Abstract: (22 Views)
INTRODUCTION: The unpredictable magnitude and scope of disasters make it particularly challenging to respond effectively and provide timely assistance to affected populations. In many situations, geographical location, regional topography, and adverse weather conditions, especially in the early stages, hinder rapid access to disaster-affected areas. In recent years, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, have emerged as an innovative technology that offers rapid data collection, real-time surveillance, and access to remote areas, thereby enhancing situational awareness and decision-making during disasters.
METHODS: This study employed a narrative review methodology to synthesize existing research on the application of UAVs across the pre-disaster, during and post-disaster phases of disaster management. A comprehensive search of relevant databases yielded a total of 1,986 articles. After removing duplicate records and screening titles, abstracts, and full texts based on predefined inclusion criteria, nine articles were selected for final analysis and review.
FINDINGS: The findings were categorized into four main phases of disaster management: prevention and mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. The reviewed studies demonstrated that UAVs play a significant role in improving situational awareness, damage assessment, Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, infrastructure monitoring, and recovery planning. Despite certain technical, regulatory, and operational challenges, the overall evidence highlights the substantial potential of UAVs to enhance disaster management effectiveness across all phases.
CONCLUSION: According to the results of this review, systematic planning for the integration of UAV technology across various stages of disaster management is essential. Although challenges remain, these can be addressed through the adoption of advanced technologies such as deep learning algorithms, as well as improved equipment, software, and analytical tools for data collection and processing. Such advancements can significantly enhance the cost-effectiveness and operational value of UAVs, supporting more efficient disaster response, mitigation, and recovery strategies.
METHODS: This study employed a narrative review methodology to synthesize existing research on the application of UAVs across the pre-disaster, during and post-disaster phases of disaster management. A comprehensive search of relevant databases yielded a total of 1,986 articles. After removing duplicate records and screening titles, abstracts, and full texts based on predefined inclusion criteria, nine articles were selected for final analysis and review.
FINDINGS: The findings were categorized into four main phases of disaster management: prevention and mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. The reviewed studies demonstrated that UAVs play a significant role in improving situational awareness, damage assessment, Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, infrastructure monitoring, and recovery planning. Despite certain technical, regulatory, and operational challenges, the overall evidence highlights the substantial potential of UAVs to enhance disaster management effectiveness across all phases.
CONCLUSION: According to the results of this review, systematic planning for the integration of UAV technology across various stages of disaster management is essential. Although challenges remain, these can be addressed through the adoption of advanced technologies such as deep learning algorithms, as well as improved equipment, software, and analytical tools for data collection and processing. Such advancements can significantly enhance the cost-effectiveness and operational value of UAVs, supporting more efficient disaster response, mitigation, and recovery strategies.
Keywords: Unmanned aerial vehicles, Disaster management, Preparedness, Response, Recovery, Mitigation.
Article Type: Review |
Subject:
Other matters related to crisis, disasters and rescue & relief
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