**3.1 Virtual and augmented reality**

Virtual and augmented reality technologies can be used to simulate disaster scenarios, allowing those who may be involved in relief operations to receive training and education [30]. Responders can practice their skills and improve their response

times by creating a virtual environment that simulates disaster conditions. Virtual reality can also be used to create building and other structure simulations, allowing responders to practice rescue operations in a safe and controlled environment.

In addition to training and education, virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) technologies can be used to improve relief efforts in a variety of ways [31]. One such method is to use VR/AR simulations to aid in disaster preparedness planning, which may serve the call for building resilient communities [32]. These simulations can assist disaster planners and responders in better understanding the layout of the disaster area and developing more effective response strategies [33].

Another potential application for VR/AR is to aid in remote disaster assessments. Responders and aid organizations can use virtual reality/augmented reality headsets to assess the damage and needs of disaster-stricken areas without physically being present. This can save valuable time and resources, especially if traveling to the disaster area is difficult or dangerous.

Furthermore, virtual reality and augmented reality can be used to improve communication between responders and victims. Responders can better understand the situation on the ground and communicate with victims to provide aid and support using VR/AR. Responders, for example, can use AR to overlay information such as safe and unsafe areas, directions to safety, or hazards to avoid onto their view of the disaster area. This data can then be shared with victims and relief organizations to help coordinate relief efforts.

Overall, virtual reality and augmented reality technologies have enormous potential to aid in disaster response and relief efforts. As these technologies advance, they are likely to become an increasingly important tool in disaster preparedness and response efforts.

#### **3.2 Internet of Things (IoT)**

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of interconnected devices that can communicate and exchange data with one another. IoT devices can be used to monitor and collect data from disaster-affected areas in the context of disaster relief. Sensors, for example, can be installed in buildings to detect structural damage and assess the risk of collapse [34, 35]. IoT devices can also be used to track the movement of people and supplies, providing responders with real-time data that can be used to more effectively coordinate relief efforts.

In addition to its use in disaster relief efforts, IoT has a plethora of other applications. For example, IoT devices such as smart helmets or wearable sensors can be used to monitor first responders' vital signs and location in real time, ensuring their safety during rescue operations. Additionally, IoT-enabled drones can be deployed to capture footage and collect data from difficult-to-reach areas that human responders may find too dangerous to access.

Furthermore, during disaster relief operations, IoT can aid in logistics and supply chain management. IoT sensors and devices can be used to monitor and track the movement of supplies and equipment to ensure that they arrive on time. This can help to avoid delays and ensure that resources are used efficiently.

The development of early warning systems is another potential application of IoT in disaster relief. Data can be collected and analyzed to predict and detect potential disasters by deploying IoT sensors in high-risk areas such as flood-prone areas or earthquake zones [36]. This can allow for valuable preparation and evacuation time, potentially saving lives.

However, while IoT technology has many advantages for disaster relief efforts, it also has some drawbacks. Massive amounts of data generated by IoT devices, for example, must be analyzed and processed in real-time, which can be a daunting task. Furthermore, ensuring the security and privacy of sensitive data collected by IoT devices can be difficult, especially during disasters when access to secure networks may be limited. Despite these obstacles, the potential benefits of IoT in disaster relief make it an exciting area for further research and development.

## **3.3 Blockchain technology**

The use of blockchain technology can improve the transparency and accountability of relief efforts [37]. Blockchain technology can ensure that funds are distributed fairly and that aid reaches those who need it most by creating a decentralized ledger that records all transactions related to relief efforts. By creating smart contracts that automatically release funds to specific organizations or individuals, blockchain technology can also be used to facilitate the distribution of aid [38].

Blockchain technology is increasingly being used in disaster relief efforts to aid in the distribution of monetary aid. Blockchain, the technology underlying cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, is a decentralized ledger that can be used to securely and transparently track financial transactions. Following the earthquake, organizations and individuals all over the world donated money to aid relief efforts. Many people, however, were concerned that their contributions would not reach those in need or would be subject to fraud or corruption. Blockchain technology can assist in addressing these concerns by providing a secure and transparent method of tracking donations and ensuring that they reach their intended recipients. Blockchain-based systems can also assist organizations in more efficiently distributing funds by eliminating intermediaries and lowering transaction costs. The platform could aim to provide donors with a transparent and secure way to contribute to disaster relief efforts, ensuring that funds are allocated effectively and efficiently. It can use smart contracts, which are self-executing computer programs that automatically carry out the terms of a contract, to track donations and ensure that they are used for their intended purpose, to provide donors with real-time updates on the impact of their donations, and, eventually, to track the progress of relief efforts.

Aside from cryptocurrency donations, the blockchain technology underlying these digital assets can also provide practical disaster management solutions. For example, blockchain-based platforms can aid in the establishment of a secure and transparent supply chain of relief goods from donors to recipients. Using blockchain, all parties involved can track the movement of goods, ensuring that they reach their intended recipients and lowering the risk of corruption or fraud.

Furthermore, blockchain technology can be used to build decentralized crowdfunding platforms that can raise funds for disaster relief efforts without the use of intermediaries. Donors can contribute directly to the cause through these platforms, reducing transaction fees and ensuring that donations reach their intended recipients. This approach may also facilitate global giving, as donors from all over the world will be able to contribute to the relief effort without having to worry about currency conversion or international transfer fees.
