AI and Satellites Aid Myanmar Earthquake Relief

A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Mandalay, Myanmar, causing significant devastation. Relief organisations utilised satellite imagery and AI technology to assess building damage quickly and precisely. Microsoft's AI for Good Lab, in collaboration with Planet Labs, developed a customised AI model specifically for Mandalay. Initial efforts were hampered by cloud cover, but once the skies cleared, the analysis revealed that 515 buildings suffered 80% to 100% damage, and 1,524 buildings experienced 20% to 80% damage. This information is vital for directing aid efforts, although on-the-ground verification remains necessary. The data has been shared with aid groups like the Red Cross to aid their relief operations.