Risk Analysis Methodology
Understanding how TerraScope assesses climate risks for urban planning
About Our Risk Scoring
TerraScope uses NASA POWER climate data to identify areas with high flood and heat stress risks. Our scoring system helps urban planners make informed decisions about where to build and what infrastructure is needed.
Flood Risk
Based on average daily rainfall during the wettest months (July - September)
HIGH RISK
Average rainfall > 8mm/day during Jul-Sep
⚠️ Avoid ground-level residential development. Requires significant drainage infrastructure.
MEDIUM RISK
Average rainfall 5-8mm/day during Jul-Sep
⚠️ Suitable with proper drainage systems and elevation planning.
LOW RISK
Average rainfall < 5mm/day during Jul-Sep
✓ Standard infrastructure planning applies.
Heat Stress Risk
Based on average temperature during the hottest months (April - June)
HIGH RISK
Average temperature > 30°C during Apr-Jun
⚠️ Requires extensive green spaces, shade structures, and cooling infrastructure.
MEDIUM RISK
Average temperature 27-30°C during Apr-Jun
⚠️ Include vegetation and reflective surfaces in design.
LOW RISK
Average temperature < 27°C during Apr-Jun
✓ Comfortable temperatures for development.
How to Use This Information
For Site Selection
Use the Site Comparison page to evaluate multiple potential development sites. Prioritize locations with LOW risk scores in both categories. Locations with HIGH risk in either category require significant additional investment in mitigation infrastructure.
For Infrastructure Planning
HIGH flood risk areas need advanced drainage systems, elevated foundations, and permeable surfaces. HIGH heat stress areas require urban forests, cool roofing materials, and public cooling centers.
For Environmental Protection
Development in high-risk areas should include climate adaptation measures. Preserve natural drainage patterns in flood-prone zones and maintain green corridors in heat-stressed areas to protect both people and ecosystems.
Data Sources
Temperature Data: NASA POWER API - T2M (Temperature at 2 Meters)
Rainfall Data: NASA POWER API - PRECTOTCORR (Precipitation Corrected)
Humidity Data: NASA POWER API - RH2M (Relative Humidity at 2 Meters)
Data Period: 2023-2025 (historical and current)
Note: This risk assessment is based on climate data patterns and should be combined with local knowledge, elevation data, soil studies, and community input for comprehensive urban planning decisions.