ISRM Student Network Academic Workshop - The Buffalo Snowstorms: Why Are We Still Getting It Wrong? Webinar

Take your understanding of security and risk management to the next level with the Institute of Strategic Risk Management Students Network Workshop.

Join us on January 26th to hear from ISRM Executive Director Dr David Rubens, as he discusses the main topic of the Workshop – The Buffalo Snowstorm: Why Are We Still Getting It Wrong?

We will dive into the December 2022 Buffalo snowstorm and explore the reasons behind the challenges faced during it. We’ll also discuss potential solutions to improve preparedness and response in the future.

This online workshop will be held on January 26th at 14:00 GMT and is free to attend. Whether you’re a student, an emergency responder or simply interested in strategic risk management, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

 

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Register now and gain valuable insights and knowledge on the critical topic, expand your understanding, network with like-minded individuals, and advance your career in the field of risk and security management. 

 

Background of the event:

The December 2022 snowstorm in Buffalo was a catastrophic event that caught many by surprise and highlighted the importance of being prepared for extreme weather conditions. Despite the fact that snowstorms are a common occurrence in Buffalo, this one was particularly severe, with extreme weather conditions that were not anticipated. The blizzard, which was described as “once-in-a-generation” event by meteorologists, was caused by a combination of high winds and heavy snowfall. The storm lasted for four days and left Buffalo buried under more than 50 inches of snow. The snowstorm caused widespread power outages, travel disruptions, and many deaths.

Emergency services were also impacted, with many workers finding themselves stranded in the snow alongside the people they were trying to rescue. Many people were trapped in their cars and unable to reach safety, which resulted in many deaths. Additionally, the storm caused damage to buildings, cars and critical infrastructure.

There are several factors that contributed to the devastation of this snowstorm. One of the major issues was lack of rediness and emergency response. Despite forecasts warning of dangerous conditions, authorities in Buffalo were not adequately prepared for this severe event. The travel ban was put into effect too late, emergency resources were scarce, and many residents were forced to brave the storm due to a lack of convincing from authorities to stay home. The storm also caused power outages and other impacts that made it difficult for people to access basic necessities.

It is clear that the authorities were not prepared for such an extreme weather event, and it serves as a reminder that we need to be better prepared for the risks and crises that are evolving due to climate change.

This Workshop aims to examine the December 2022 snowstorm in Buffalo as a case example of the importance of being aware of and prepared for evolving risks and crises. The workshop will focus on the factors that contributed to the lack of readiness and response, and will explore ways to improve emergency management and community resilience in the face of extreme weather events and other potential crises. The goal is to learn from the mistakes made during the snowstorm and to better prepare for future extreme weather events and other crises.

Don’t let another devastating snowstorm or any other severe weather condition catch you off guard. Join us at our student workshop, as we delve into the lessons learned from the December 2022 snowstorm in Buffalo.

From emergency planning and response to the need for better forecasting and preparedness, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge and skills to be better prepared for extreme weather events. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn and take action to protect your community. Register now and be a part of the solution.