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covalex

COVALEX Hackathon: Improving Data Interoperability In Disaster Management

By Knowledge Network – Staff memberPublished on

The COVALEX project team invites you to participate in CovaHacks24, a hackathon dedicated to addressing the challenges of data interoperability in disaster management. This event offers a unique opportunity to leverage technology in developing solutions for managing hydrometeorological risks.

Key Dates and Details

  • Submissions: July 22, 2024 - August 25, 2024
  • Judging: August 26-28, 2024
  • Winners Announcement: August 30, 2024
  • Format: Online
  • Cost: Free
  • Registration: Sign up here

The Challenge

Participants are tasked with developing a cutting-edge IT tool that addresses data interoperability challenges in disaster management, particularly in the context of hydrometeorological risks. These risks, which include events like thunderstorms, heavy snowfall, droughts, and temperature extremes, can lead to secondary hazards such as landslides and wildfires. More information about these topics is provided here. Solutions should consider both inter-organisational and cross-border challenges. A short video presentation (under 4 minutes) will accompany each prototype submission to further explain the concept.

Why Participate?

CovaHacks24 encourages participants to apply their programming expertise and creative skills to develop IT tools that address the complexities of disaster management. The hackathon fosters collaboration across disciplines, inviting participants from computer science, social science, engineering, and related fields to work together on innovative solutions.

Participants will have the opportunity to showcase their prototypes to relevant stakeholders. The winning team will be recognised with an invitation to the Disaster Research Days 2024 in Vienna, with travel and accommodation expenses covered by COVALEX.

Who Can Participate?

The hackathon is open to a broad audience, including university and PhD students, as well as professionals from UCPM member states. Whether participating individually or as part of a team, all are encouraged to bring their unique perspectives to the challenge.

Judging Criteria

Submissions will be evaluated based on:

  • Relevance to Civil Protection
  • Originality
  • Potential Impact on Disaster Management
  • Quality of Presentation

Mentorship and Support

Mentoring support will be available throughout the submission period to assist participants with any questions related to disaster management.

Registration

Those interested in participating in CovaHacks24 are encouraged to register here. This event represents an opportunity to contribute to meaningful advancements in disaster management, while also networking with like-minded individuals and gaining valuable experience.

About the COVALEX Project

The COVALEX (Community of Valued Experts in Hydrometeorological and Technological Multi-Hazards) project is an EU-funded initiative aimed at building a community of experts in managing hydrometeorological and technological hazards. These hazards, which include extreme weather events and their subsequent impacts, pose significant challenges across Europe and beyond. COVALEX seeks to enhance disaster risk management through collaboration, innovation, and the development of practical solutions.

Contact Information:

For enquiries and more details, please contact Jasmina Schmidt at jasmina.schmidt@dcna.at