In Celebration of the New “Journal of Disaster Research”

It is indeed a pleasure for me to express my congratulations on the establishment of the new “Journal of Disaster Research” which will provide valuable information toward disaster prevention and mitigation. In recent years, global societies have experienced many natural and human-caused disasters, such as those produced by earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, tornadoes, cyclones, floods, design and construction deficiencies, and terroristic acts, thus producing great human suffering and economic loss. As populations continue to grow, the risks associated with such disasters will likewise continue to grow, unless effective measures are developed and implemented to mitigate their effects. To do so will require coordinated multi-disciplinary efforts involving researchers, educators, practicing engineers and architects, city and regional planners, specialists of finance and economics, construction managers, social workers, and health officials. Recognizing this need for coordinated efforts, multi-disciplinary research centers are beginning to emerge, educational programs are broadening in scope, journals are expanding topic coverage, and practicing professionals are modifying their activities accordingly. The new “Journal of Disaster Research” can have a very positive influence on such changes by publishing timely research papers, articles on professional advances in technological development and application, and other disaster related materials. In closing, let me again express my congratulations on the establishment of the “Journal of Disaster Research” and extend my very best wishes for its success.