Damage data analysis and vulnerability estimation following the August 14, 2003 Lefkada Island, Greece, Earthquake

Abstract

Earthquake damage data is of vital importance both as an indicator of the likely performance of buildings in future earthquakes, as well as for the calibration of existing theoretical-analytical models regarding building vulnerability. The analysis of damage data collected shortly after the August 14, 2003 Lefkada Island, Greece earthquake revealed the higher vulnerability of masonry buildings vis-a-vis all other building typologies on the island. However, promising means in strengthening the existing masonry stock emerge, when considering the improved performance of buildings of a dual-system of stone-masonry and timber frame – a construction practice uniquely adopted in the island. Based on the parameterless seismic intensity scale (psi) proposed by Spence et al. (1991) a set of preliminary vulnerability curves for the typologies of the island’s buildings are proposed.