A Geographical Approach to Disaster Management: Analyzing Vulnerability in Relation to Decision and Intervention Resources in Lima and Callao

Abstract

This article describes a geographical approach to disaster management for a major earthquake in Lima and Callao, Peru by examining the interface between hazard (and vulnerability) research and disaster research. It invites reflection on the spatial and territorial dimensions of crises by analyzing the specification and location of decision and intervention resources. In view of the fragmented politico-administrative organization in this metropolitan area, the location of these resources shows a center/periphery type of spatial disparity, which questions if local jurisdictions can manage this type of event and underlines the necessity to rethink the management of territory in disasters.