An overview of Google Earth Engine for disaster risk management

This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of Google Earth Engine (GEE) applications in disaster risk management (DRM). The cloud-computing platform has revolutionized how researchers and practitioners analyze satellite imagery for monitoring, mapping, and mitigating natural hazards. We explore GEE capabilities across multiple disaster types including floods, droughts, wildfires, and landslides, highlighting its role in pre-disaster preparedness, real-time monitoring, and post-disaster assessment. The chapter discusses key advantages of GEE such as its extensive satellite data archive, parallel processing capabilities, and accessibility for developing regions with limited computational resources. Case studies demonstrate practical applications in flood susceptibility mapping, drought monitoring using vegetation indices, and multi-temporal analysis of disaster-affected areas. We also address challenges and future directions for leveraging GEE in building climate-resilient communities and enhancing early warning systems globally.