A first approach to the estimation of seismic damage in Guatemala City: a seismic exposure model

Autor: Luis Diego Dávila Migoya, José Manuel Cabrero Ballarín, Omar Flores Beltetón
Rok vydání: 2022
Popis: This study presents the analysis of the methodology of a seismic exposure model in Guatemala City. In the last years, progress in the investigation of regional seismic hazards has revealed the need to study the vulnerability of the buildings in Central America. In addition, in recent years there have been earthquakes of moderate magnitude in Guatemala causing damage in some areas of the country. An accurate exposure model and updated threat scenarios are essential for a detailed vulnerability study. This exposure study reveals the presence of structural typologies that are very vulnerable to earthquakes: adobe and simple masonry. Similarly, the study reveals the majority presence of reinforced masonry and the growing construction of reinforced concrete buildings. The characteristic of this model is the use of historical photographs of Guatemala City to determine the relationship between constructive typologies. The lack of exposure studies in the country has prevented the creation of policies to reduce vulnerability to a catastrophe like the earthquake in 1976. The analysis and methodology presented in this study is the best instrument for mitigation and prevention of actions to face a seismic catastrophe. Based on the results obtained, some matrices are proposed according to the age and material of the buildings. In this case, the application of the study contributes to defining the different measures for the reduction of seismic risk in Guatemala City.
Databáze: OpenAIRE