Mapping urban resilience: Systematic insights into morphological parameters critical for effective evacuation and disaster response

Abstract

Urban morphology significantly influences crowd movement and evacuation in public spaces by influencing route efficiency, access to safe zones, and emergency responses. Morphological indicators such as network configuration, building density, and spatial patterns affect evacuation success and urban resilience, though their effects at smaller scales have been studied less. These indicators can be classified into three levels: network, plot/block, and building fabric, each of which affects urban response differently. Network features such as street connectivity are essential for accessible evacuation routes; plot/block features contribute to resilience to disruptions; and the building fabric influences local movement toward safety. The interaction among these levels can either facilitate or hinder a city’s ability to manage evacuations and recover from disasters. This systematic review synthesizes findings from 76 case studies, guided by the PRISMA framework, to: (1) classify and define morphological indicators across various scales (network, plot/block, building fabric) relevant to evacuation processes; (2) analyze how these indicators, such as street width, connectivity, intersection density, and centrality, affect evacuation efficiency, urban resilience, mobility, and crowd dynamics; and (3) address gaps in the literature, focusing on lower-scale morphological factors that significantly influence evacuation but remain under-examined. This study conducts a multi-scale analysis of morphological indicators across various disaster scenarios. A review of 76 studies shows that urban morphology significantly affects evacuation efficiency and resilience across multiple scales, with network configuration and intersection density as key factors. A “connectivity paradox” is identified: while high connectivity promotes earthquake evacuation, it may heighten flood risks by increasing surface-water flow and peak discharge. Optimal connectivity varies by disaster type and phase: high connectivity favors immediate evacuation, whereas moderate connectivity aids rescue operations. Central nodes carry most traffic but are vulnerable if compromised. Micro-scale factors, such as the building fabric, influence initial disruptions and recovery. An integrated approach that combines macro- and micro-indicators across disaster types and stages is crucial for urban resilience and effective evacuation, underscoring the need for tailored urban planning in disaster preparedness.