Rojas-Ibarra, María X.

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    Framework for humanitarian logistics and relief distribution efforts of non-established relief groups in the aftermath of a catastrophic event: Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico
    (2019-12-12) Rojas-Ibarra, María X.; Valdés-Díaz, Didier M.; College of Engineering; Holguín-Veras, José; Bartolomei-Suárez, Sonia M.; Department of Civil Engineering; Méndez-Vélez, Nancy
    After massive disasters and catastrophes, the infrastructure and communication systems of a community can be severely affected to the point that their function could be nonexistent. Furthermore, the affected areas are supplied with significant amounts of donations, which need to be optimally inventoried, stored, and distributed to benefit the community while minimizing logistics costs. In these events, it is vital to have disaster response plans in place as well as readily available trained personnel who are able to reach and support the affected areas with critical supplies in time to prevent the loss of lives and properties. In September of 2017, Puerto Rico was devastated by Hurricane Maria, a category five hurricane. Non-Established Relief Groups (NERGs) formed immediately after the disaster to contribute to reduce the distress in the considerably affected population. This research presents a conceptual framework with the key factors to improve the operation of NERGs when participating in the relief efforts after a catastrophic event. The proposed framework considers the required steps for an efficient relief effort, and it is intended to support a well-organized emergency response process by NERGs. Also, simulation tools were implemented to assess the operations performed by these groups for the management of supplies. Various layouts for the space usage distribution and factors that affect the material convergence phenomenon were evaluated. Recommendations are provided for NERGs in order to improve the efficiency of their activities and increase the benefits offered to the affected communities.