Drones Are a New but Valuable Tool in Hurricane Response and Recovery Efforts
By a
In addition to helping keep emergency workers safe by allowing them to look for people trapped by floodwaters and inspect damage in high-risk areas, drone use can speed up the recovery process. Drones can be flown over structures such as fuel tanks, power lines, and railroad tracks before they can be reached by land, enabling government agencies and utilities to identify what is in most urgent need of repair.
They also allow insurance adjusters to more quickly process claims, enabling rebuilding efforts to get underway faster.
When Hurricane Harvey first made landfall in
In the 10 days that followed Hurricane Harvey, the
With the exception of a handful of flights conducted by media firms, all of the approved operations were for drones used in conjunction with, or on behalf of, government agencies. Drones were used to inspect bridges, roadways, and power lines; assess the condition of oil refineries and water plants; and survey coastal damage.
As the flood waters continued to recede and flight restrictions were eased or lifted, a number of insurance companies - including Allstate,
However, drone use by insurance companies and other commercial users is currently limited by
These regulations could change with a 2018
Even if the current
Both commercial and non-military government market gains will be fueled by further improvements in drone designs, making them more capable and easier to operate; increased availability of systems customized for use in specific applications; and the cost savings that drone use can provide.
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