Navigating the new era of climate uncertainty: The importance of updated traffic information

It’s heartbreaking for me to watch the aftermath of hurricanes Helene and Milton on TV and on the Internet. It’s unconceivable to think that two hurricanes can happen so close in time and intensity.

As climate change accelerates, the United States and the world face an urgent need to adapt. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the projected average temperatures rise will significantly affect weather patterns and infrastructure for years to come, with extreme weather events like hurricanes, droughts, and flooding potentially doubling by 2030 (Figure 1). This new era of climate uncertainty calls for updated, near real-time traffic information for both public agencies and private enterprises to optimize travel routes and improve resilience against environmental disruptions.

Understanding Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT)

One of the most vital metrics in transportation planning is Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT). VMT quantifies the total miles driven by all vehicles within a specific area during a given time frame.

Unlike the VMT data from the U.S. Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT), which relies on estimates based on historical data and is not updated regularly to accurately reflect current conditions, Arity VMT data is derived from nearly 45 million telematics connections that reflect real-world driving behavior (Figure 2). Since it’s available as either a weekly or monthly report, it offers a nuanced view of mobility patterns that traditional metrics often overlook. This near real-time insight is invaluable for anyone striving to adapt to shifts in consumer travel behavior caused by sudden, natural disruptions or man-made, as well as gradual population changes.

Making VMT data accessible on Google Cloud Marketplace

The advent of cloud computing has revolutionized how organizations access and utilize data. By making our VMT data available through Google Cloud Marketplace, we are taking the bold step to make it easier for both public agencies and private enterprises to incorporate this vital information into their operations. The cloud-based platform allows for seamless integration with existing systems, enabling organizations to analyze and visualize traffic data in near real-time. Enhanced accessibility means that users can easily leverage powerful analytics tools to enhance decision-making processes. Please refer to this Arity press release to learn more about the significance of this milestone.

Real-world use cases for Arity VMT data

The potential applications of daily VMT data are vast and varied. In the private sector, logistics companies can use near real-time VMT data to optimize routing and reduce supply delay and fuel consumption, leading to cost savings and decreased emissions. Additionally, ride-sharing platforms can enhance user experience by focusing on high-demand areas most affected by the natural disasters, enabling them to better allocate resources and reduce wait times.

Consider city planners who can utilize this information to model the impact of weather on transportation infrastructure. By analyzing VMT trends in relation to extreme weather patterns, planners can better identify vulnerable areas and develop targeted strategies to enhance resilience.

Furthermore, brick-and-mortar companies can leverage VMT insights to develop more tailored business strategies that account for changing driving patterns. By analyzing data that reflects near real-time travel behavior, they can tailor their business strategies to account for sudden changes as well gradual fluctuations.

Conclusion and next steps

As extreme weather continues to impact our lives, the necessity for updated and accessible traffic information becomes increasingly clear. Arity VMT data, available through Google Cloud Marketplace, offers a critical resource for both public agencies and private enterprises aiming to navigate this new landscape effectively. By harnessing near real-time insights into driving behaviors, organizations can make faster informed decisions that improve infrastructure resilience and enhance operational efficiency.

To explore how Arity’s VMT data can assist your organization in adapting to the evolving climate landscape, check out our latest press release or connect with our sales team. Embrace the future of transportation planning through cloud technologies to ensure your organization is well-equipped to face the uncertainties ahead.