Title: The vulnerability of transport logistics to extreme weather events

Authors: Claus Doll; Anestis Papanikolaou; Hedi Maurer

Addresses: Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research ISI, Breslauer Strasse 48, 76139 Karlsruhe, Germany ' Hellenic Institute of Transport (HIT), Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (CERTH), 6th Km Charilaou – Thermi Rd., 57001 Thermi, Thessaloniki, Greece ' Panteia-NEA, Bredewater 26, 2701 AA Zoetermeer, The Netherlands

Abstract: Records of international organisations and reinsurance companies highlight the rising damages caused by extreme weather events. The burden of these hazards for transport and possible adaptation strategies have been explored by the European research project WEATHER. In this paper, we summarise the main findings and link them to supply chain security. In this context, we develop a method for assessing the criticality of certain elements in large networks. This is crucial as shipping constitutes a major element of supply chains and as world economic conditions simultaneously demand for cost savings and more reliability in supply mechanisms. Our findings suggest that extreme weather has significant impacts on transport systems. Highest losses are estimated for road, and here in for user delays and accident consequences. We conclude that weather forecasts should be continuously monitored and the development of business continuity plans on company level should be fostered.

Keywords: weather extremes; climate change; damage costs; supply chain risks; supply chain security; infrastructure assets; transport operations; delay costs; transport safety; adaptation; transport logistics; transport vulnerability; extreme weather events; supply chain management; SCM; supply chain vulnerability; business continuity planning.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2014.060787

International Journal of Shipping and Transport Logistics, 2014 Vol.6 No.3, pp.293 - 313

Published online: 24 May 2014 *

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