Exploring the Robustness of Emergency Response Networks by Considering Task Association and Reassignment: An Extreme Rainstorm Case

Abstract In the face of disasters, a strong organizational network is the foundation for effectively accomplishing emergency relief tasks. In an emergency response network comprising tasks and organizations, the failure of certain organizations may cause large systemic losses owing to internal component associations. To analyze the response system’s robustness, we developed emergency response networks based on the associations between organizations and tasks. A cascading failure model was established considering task reassignment after organizational failure, and indicators in terms of tasks and structures were identified to observe robustness. In the proposed model, we developed random, bond-based, and bridge-based organizational failure modes, and average, capacity-based, and surplus-based reassignment programs. To validate the model, simulation experiments were conducted in the context of extreme rainstorms. The results show that bridge-based failures were the most damaging to network systems, and the average reassignment program was the least effective. The analysis of model parameters illustrates the critical effectiveness of individual organizational capability in enhancing system robustness. The proposed framework and model enrich the study of emergency response networks with favorable applicability, and the results can provide theoretical references for emergency management practices.