Understanding Crowd Dynamics

The behavior of crowds can be analyzed through the principles of fluid dynamics, revealing patterns similar to fluid movement. A study of crowds at the San Fermín Festival in Spain highlighted how densely packed groups exhibit predictable motions, akin to the flow of liquids. Researchers discovered that identifying these patterns can help detect dangerous crowd behavior before it escalates into chaos. This newfound understanding aims to enhance crowd safety by guiding authorities on how to manage large gatherings more effectively.