MEDIUM: Map, Poster, Data Visualization
COURSE: Geography 990: Research and Thesis
DESCRIPTION:
This map is an aggregated visualization of FEMA’s National Risk Index (NRI) for 18 natural hazards. Beyond successfully balancing the presentation of overall spatial patterns and individual attribute retrieval, this map intricately combines science (color theory) and art (innovative floral symbol design), theory (multivariate thematic mapping) and application (natural hazard risk assessment), as well as manual craftsmanship (traditional static map design) and automation (AI-assisted processes). It offers both professionals in related fields and the general public inspiring insights from diverse perspectives.
ARTIST’S STATEMENT:
Each universal hexagon unit in this map, including those in all inset maps, represents an area of 1,000 square miles. In this floral symbol, all 18 types of hazards are arranged along a color spectrum based on their mechanisms. Similar hazards are positioned closer, visually highlighting potential spatial patterns. Larger and darker petals represent a higher risk for a particular natural hazard. The values within each hexagon are calculated as the weighted average of the original risk scores from FEMA’s National Risk Index (NRI) at the county level, with weights based on the proportion of the area that intersects with the counties. The risk score for a specific hazard is proportional to the expected annual loss from that hazard and the community resilience, while inversely proportional to the social vulnerability. Additionally, small multiple maps of individual hazards are listed on both sides of the main map, aligned with the colors and positions in the petal symbol. At the bottom, an overview map of the averaged risk score is included, supplemented with population density data for additional context. Visit CartoGuophy.com to discover more about this map and view other works by Atlas Guo.
OTHER INFORMATION:
This map has been revised under the guidance of FEMA personnel. This map has won the Best Thematic Map Award in Wisconsin Land Information Association 2025 Map Contest, and has been featured by Highlands County (FL) to be displayed at local libraries for GIS public education.