Drone technology is fundamentally changing the way we respond to natural disasters. In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, rescue teams used drones extensively to map and triage affected areas, while utility and cellular providers used them to inspect damage and prioritize repairs. Cheap to operate and with the ability to cover widespread areas, drones are changing the game when it comes to cleaning up disaster zones.
Already credited with saving dozens of lives, the next generation of drones will have the ability to go where humans cannot, in order to measure temperature, air quality, and even radiation.