Weather and Disaster Response
CAPS is focused on improving public safety through social science and human factors research. Concentrating on topics such as severe weather communication and emergency management, we strive to advance the understanding of these complex issues in both the public and private sectors. Informed by this research, we develop products and tools to aid in the application and implementation of industry standards and best practices.
Our researchers travel the globe presenting at conferences, hosting workshops and serving as experts to various media outlets. CAPS has received local, national, and international attention for our social science-based research.
Applications are customized by
purpose, audience, and device
Algo Traffic
Public-facing website and mobile app featuring real-time location-based traffic information and weather alerts.
VORTEX-SE Study
Learning about how individuals and families understand and use hazardous weather information.
UA Safety Mobile App
Connects University of Alabama Students & Employees to local weather alerts & campus safety guidelines.
If you get better information then you can make better choices. You can be more confident in whatever actions you take if you're getting more information.
Dr. Laura Myers
Social Scientist
Process, purpose, and expertise are
difference makers for our results.
Our researchers work with a wide range of partners by engaging in direct interdisciplinary research that helps create applications that work in the real world. This research directly results in the newest technology options for public safety through GIS applications and systems integration tech as seen in the UA Safety App.
We use surveys, interviews, focus groups, direct observation, organizational analysis, and develop partnerships to improve weather warnings, inform weather and climate resiliency, emergency management, wind event infrastructure, public education, and technology development for first responders.
Research
CAPS researchers have expertise in transportation and traffic safety as well as weather. Learn more about how these findings are applied.
Learn More