GAR15 Global Exposure Dataset for Virgin Islands (U.S.)

Global exposure database was developed for GAR15 by UNEP-GRID with close collaboration and inputs from WAPMERR (World Agency of Planetary Monitoring and Earthquake Risk Reduction), EU Joint Research Center (JRC), and Kokusai Kogyo. This database includes estimation on the economic value of the exposed assets, as well as their physical characteristics in urban and rural agglomerations including estimation of population too. This information is key to assess the potential damages from different hazards to each of the exposed elements. The global exposure database is developed at 1km spatial resolution at coastal areas and at 5km spatial resolution everywhere else on the globe. It includes economic value, number of residents, and construction type of residential, commercial and industrial buildings, as well as hospitals and schools (De Bono et al., 2015).

This dataset was generated using other global datasets; it should not be used for local applications (such as land use planning). The main purpose of GAR 2015 datasets is to broadly identify high risk areas at global level and for identification of areas where more detailed data should be collected. Some areas may be underestimated or overestimated. Given this analysis was conducted using global datasets, the resolution of which is not sufficient for in-situ planning, it should not be used for critical (like life saving) decisions. UNISDR and collaborators should in no case be liable for misuse or misinterpretation of the presented results. The designations employed and the presentation of material on the maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of UNISDR or the Secretariat of the United Nations concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries.

Please refer to the “PLEASE READ - Metadata-Exposure2015.pdf” file included in the zipped shapefile archive for additional important information and metadata.