Digital platform for analysis and reduction of geophysical risks (GEORISK)

Administrative Reference: PDC2025-164988-I00

Source project reference: PID2022-137334NB-I00

Summary

The proposal presents the development and validation of GEORISK, an innovative digital platform for geophysical risk assessment through the integration of advanced simulation models. GEORISK leverages GPU acceleration to deliver real-time simulations of complex geophysical hazards, such as flash floods, mud and debris flows, soil erosion, and lava flows. This platform is particularly timely given the increasing frequency and severity of extreme geophysical events driven by climate change, especially in vulnerable Mediterranean regions. GEORISK enables users to assess future risk scenarios, supporting proactive disaster prevention and resilience strategies. The primary objective of the project is to create a scalable and easy-to-use platform, accessible through common web browsers, that will facilitate its widespread adoption by engineering consultancies, government agencies, and risk management organizations. The platform’s modular architecture and open-source base ensure long-term sustainability and ease of integration into existing early warning systems. The proposal describes a plan to transform existing high-fidelity academic models into a professional-grade software product, with robust user interfaces, supporting documentation and infrastructure, and all models validated through real-world pilot studies in Spain using topographic, climatic, and land-use data.

The research team, the Computational Hydraulics Group at the University of Zaragoza, has more than two decades of experience in numerical geophysical flow modeling and high-performance computing. Their extensive experience in GPU programming, coupled with a proven track record in national and international projects, publications, and collaborations with industry and public administration, provides a solid foundation for the successful execution and transfer of this project. GEORISK promises significant scientific and technical impact by connecting fragmented approaches to geophysical hazard modeling and enabling holistic multiphysics risk assessment within a unified high-performance computing framework that will optimize risk management under changing climate conditions. The platform’s open architecture and computational efficiency will foster collaborative research and accelerate innovation in the field of geophysical hazards. Beyond its scientific value, GEORISK offers an alternative that can boost exports.

Its commercialization strategy includes market validation, intellectual property protection, and licensing, all aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Success will be measured through real-world validation, significant speed improvements, intellectual property protection, and commercial readiness. This proposal presents a compelling and viable path to transform cutting-edge research into a practical and impactful tool for addressing urgent climate-related geophysical hazards.

Participants

María Pilar García Navarro (IP)

Pilar Brufau García

Mario  Morales Hernández

Sergio Martínez Aranda