Can it really be that dangerous? Issues in visualization of risk and vulnerability

Risk analysis tends to be a highly mathematically, statistically, and let alone probabilistically oriented science. Risk maps derived from risk analysis often portray only one possible scenario and do not leave much room for personal interpretation. Data on risks and hazards often tend to be heterogeneous, complex, inter-dependent, not directly comparable, and correlated in ways that are not immediately apparent. Visualization technology has emerged as a form of exploratory cartography, which can help explain, analyze and communicate risk. Because the risk analyst and the public in general may differ on what constitutes a risk or what not, visualization techniques can help the risk assessor better understand underlying factors and generate better risk maps, thus communicating a clearer message to the public. Examples of how risk should be communicated are presented and discussed along with current visualizations.