Pre-Disaster Site Selection for Modular Temporary Housing Facilities: A GIS-Based Multi-Criteria Evaluation Approach

This study proposes a systematic methodology for the pre-disaster site selection of modular temporary housing facilities using a GIS-based Multi-Criteria Evaluation (MCE) to facilitate the rapid restoration of residential stability for disaster victims. The spatial scope was Heunghae-eup, Pohan, where residents experienced prolonged stays in temporary shelters after the 2017 earthquake. To ensure both rapid installation and long-term habitability, a two-step sequential filtering framework was established by comparing a physical constraint analysis (base map) with a residential suitability evaluation. As a result, 101 parcels (0.2%) of the total 64,571 in Heunghae-eup were identified as available sites that satisfied the physical and legal installation requirements. Residential suitability for these sites was then assessed using eight factors and 21 indicators. Ultimately, five optimal candidate sites were identified: a university parking lot, elementary school playground, library parking lot, public parking lot, and cultural center parking lot. By presenting a strategic approach for securing sites during the disaster-prevention phase, this study is expected to support strengthened municipal disaster preparedness and improve the residential stability of disaster victims.