In this study, we explore the implications of integrating social distancing with emergency evacuation  when a hurricane approaches a major city during the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, we compare DNN (Deep Neural Network)-based and non-DNN methods for generating evacuation strategies that minimize evacuation time while allowing for social distancing in rescue vehicles. A central question is whether a DNN-based method provides sufficient extra  efficiency to accommodate social distancing, in a time-constrained evacuation operation. We describe the problem as a Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem and solve it using one non-DNN solution (Sweep Algorithm) and one DNN-based solution (Deep Reinforcement Learning).  DNN-based solution can provide decision-makers with more efficient routing than  non-DNN solution. Although DNN-based solution can save considerable time in evacuation routing , it does not come close to compensating for the extra time required for social distancing  and its advantage disappears as the  vehicle capacity approaches the number of people per household.
We explore the implications of integrating social distancing with emergency evacuation , as would be expected when a hurricane approaches a city during the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, we compare DNN (Deep Neural Network)-based and non-DNN methods for generating evacuation strategies that minimize evacuation time while allowing for social distancing in emergency vehicles. A central question is whether a DNN-based method provides sufficient extra routing efficiency to accommodate increased social distancing in a time-constrained evacuation operation. We describe the problem as a Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem and solve it using a non-DNN solution (Sweep Algorithm) and a DNN-based solution (Deep Reinforcement Learning). The DNN-based solution can provide decision-makers with more efficient routing than the typical non-DNN routing solution. However , it does not come close to compensating for the extra time required for social distancing , and its advantage disappears as the emergency vehicle capacity approaches the number of people per household.
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solution. Although DNN-based solution can save considerable time in evacuation routing
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