ASSESSING THE INFLUENCE OF EVACUATION SIGNAGE ON TSUNAMI EVACUATION: A CASE STUDY OF KHAO LAK, THAILAND

Abstract

Tsunamis pose a significant threat to coastal communities worldwide and necessitate effective evacuation strategies. However, the influence of evacuation signage on tsunami evacuation needs further investigation in existing simulation studies. This research fills this gap by examining how evacuation signage influences the efficiency and effectiveness of tsunami evacuation processes. Our focus is on Khao Lak, Thailand, where the current state of evacuation signage is not adequately maintained. In this study, a case study in Khao Lak, Thailand, is conducted using agent-based modelling and simulation developed on the Unity game engine. A dynamic simulation environment is created, incorporating realistic agent behaviour, individual preferences, and physical interaction. Through the exploration of various scenarios, the influence of different signage following ratios on success rates and casualties is evaluated, taking into account the challenges posed by inadequate maintenance of existing evacuation signage. Through the analysis of simulation results, valuable insights into the role of evacuation signage in improving tsunami evacuation are expected to be gained. These insights will assist urban planners, emergency management authorities, and policy makers in the design and placement of signage systems, contributing to the development of more effective evacuation plans that consider the observed maintenance problems in Khao Lak, Thailand. Additionally, this research will make a contribution to the broader field of agent-based modelling and simulation, demonstrating the applicability of Unity as a powerful platform for studying complex real-world phenomena.