Prototype of a Real-Time System for Earthquake Damage Estimation in Japan

Abstract

J-RISQ, a real-time system for earthquake damage estimation, was developed provide information by combining amplification characteristic data for subsurface ground accumulated in the course of the development of the Japan Seismic Hazard Information Station (JSHIS), basic information on population and buildings, methods for predicting ground motion, methods for assessing building damage, and strong motion data observed by K-NET and KiK-net in real-time. J-RISQ estimates spatial ground motion distribution from seismic intensity information sent at different timing for observation stations, estimates population exposure to seismic intensity and building damage using estimated ground motion as input, and provides information to users via Web browser or email using Web GIS. J-RISQ estimation is based on intensity data obtained at different timing to ensure recency by updating results when it receives new data and updates results when it receives estimation results. J-RISQ provides and collects information using questionnaires from users on actual motion and damage situations. We have operated the system on trial from 2010 and estimated over 500 earthquakes in real-time. As a result, the system provides the first report 30 seconds after it receives intensity information at a certain level or larger, thus showing sufficient performance from the perspective of providing immediate information.