Work

Assessing the cascading impacts of natural hazards on Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) using Scotland as a case study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This paper explores the cross-sectoral cascading impacts of extreme weather events on Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) to evidence the interconnected vulnerabilities across energy, water, transport and telecommunications. Using Storm Éowyn from 2025, cross-sectoral disruptions and impacts to Scotland’s CNI are explored through a co-designed workshop and survey. The study identifies key dependencies on electricity and telecommunications infrastructure, providing vital evidence to inform future preparedness and investment strategies for climate-resilient CNI.

Source: npj natural hazards.

DOI: 10.1038/s44304-025-00161-9

Authors: Younghwa Cha, Christopher J. White, Paula L. M. Gonzalez, Emily Wallace, David Harkin, Lou Brett, Kanzis Mattu, R. Sean Smith, Craig Thom, Medlyn D. Alix, Caroline Olbert, Laura Burnett, Elizabeth Hampton, Andrew Sheppard, Alexandra Campbell, Gareth Rees, Rachael Steller

Institutions: Heriot-Watt University, University of Strathclyde, Met Office, Network Rail, University of Edinburgh, Scottish Power (United Kingdom), Scottish Water (United Kingdom), Committee on Climate Change

Language: English

Topic: Infrastructure Resilience and Vulnerability Analysis

Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Climate action, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,090

Funders: European Commission, Met Office, HORIZON EUROPE Framework Programme, Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, Natural Environment Research Council

Awards: EMERGE: Multi-hazards and emergent risks in Northern Europe's remote and vulnerable regions, DTP 2020-2021 University of Strathclyde, G8745501019

OpenAlex ID: W7117292071

FWCI: 2.289

Cites: 17

Cited by: 6

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