HAZUS (abbreviation for HAZards United States) is a GIS-based natural hazard loss estimation software package developed by FEMA.

In 1999 FEMA released its first edition of a GOTS loss and risk assessment software package built on GIS technology. This product was termed HAZUS99. The current version is HAZUS-MH MR2 where MH stands for 'Multi-Hazards'. Currently HAZUS can model three types of hazards: flooding, hurricanes, and earthquakes. The model estimates the risk in two steps. First it calculates the exposed area for each hazard selected, it then uses the exposed area to calculate the potential losses in terms of financial losses, structural losses, etc.

Although it was developed with the US continent in focus, the HAZUS toolset has been adopted by emergency management organizations worldwide.

External links

• FEMA HAZUS website
• Google Group with HAZUS users
• Hazus website

Federal Emergency Management Agency | Emergency management | Science software