As part of its efforts to combat wildfires, Maui, Hawaii has added a new AI tool to its emergency response plan.
The Maui Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has signed a four-year contract with Genasys, a protective communications provider. As part of the contract, the county will now have access to Genasys EVAC and TRAFFIC AI by Ladris services.
“MEMA’s contract award to Genasys marks a significant step forward in our efforts to enhance disaster preparedness and emergency management in Maui County,” said Mayor Richard Bissen. “These advanced planning and communication tools will allow us to respond more effectively to future emergencies, including making data-driven evacuation decisions.”
EVAC is an emergency planning, management, and alerting solution designed to ensure that citizens receive real-time information during emergency situations. EVAC uses intelligent zones to enable emergency managers and first responders to rapidly identify precise areas, implement optimized evacuation plans, and deliver targeted, clear notifications and warnings, including evacuation and shelter-in-place updates. By using the Genasys Protect mobile app, citizens can receive location-based notifications to stay safe and informed in emergencies.
TRAFFIC AI works with EVAC by providing real-time traffic data and analytics. The integration between the two solutions enables emergency managers to coordinate evacuations more effectively, ensuring that routes are clear and safe for those needing to quickly leave affected areas.
MEMA said the deployment of EVAC and TRAFFIC AI in Maui County is expected to begin in January 2025 after a careful review by numerous first responder agencies.
“Our key stakeholders – our fire, police, dispatchers, state partners, and many others – will be providing input on the initial evacuation zones the software will create for each area,” MEMA Administrator Amos Lonokailua-Hewett said. “Their deep local knowledge will augment the technology and help us prepare to deploy the real-time communication tools.”
