Earthquake Preparedness Research Articles

THE EFFECT OF EARTHQUAKE KNOWLEDGE AND RİSK PERCEPTİON ON SOCİAL SUSTAİNABLE EARTHQUAKE AWARENESS

The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between participants' earthquake risk perception and knowledge level and sustainable earthquake awareness in terms of various variables. The study is descriptive cross-sectional research. 559 volunteer individuals participated in the study. Relationships between quantitative variables were determined with Pearson correlation analysis. Our research found that there is a significant difference between gender and earthquake risk perception. It has been determined that my disaster experience has an impact on the level of earthquake knowledge. Women were found to have lower earthquake knowledge scores than men. Women were found to have higher earthquake risk perception scores than men. Single people had higher cognitive earthquake risk perception scores than married people. It was found that the earthquake risk perception scores of the disaster survivors were higher than those of the non-survivors. More comprehensive studies may be needed to understand the interaction of factors such as gender, marital status, and disaster experience on earthquake knowledge level and risk perception. These studies can contribute to the development of more effective education and awareness strategies for the general earthquake preparedness of society.

Risk messaging style and its effect on public preparedness for earthquakes: longitudinal intervention-based study

AbstractThis study examines the effect of risk communication styles (fear-based versus empowerment-based) on households’ earthquake preparedness. An online longitudinal study with intervention and control groups was conducted using a representative sample of the adult population in Israel. The change in the reported level of preparedness was assessed through Repeated Measures ANOVA with interaction effects for both the risk communication style and gender. The Analysis revealed a significant difference in reported levels of earthquake preparedness over time (F(1.697,303.70) = 102.58, p < 0.001; partial η2 = 0.36). However, no statistically significant interaction was found with the risk communication style (p = 0.55). Borderline significance (p = 0.04) was observed in the three-way interaction (time-intervention-gender). Gender (β = 0.19), age (β = 0.21), perceived earthquake likelihood (β = 0.14), and sense of preparedness (β = 0.28) were significant predictors in multivariate regression analysis. While consistently showing that participants exposed to empowering information reported higher earthquake preparedness, the research hypothesis was not substantiated. Recommendations for public health policy are discussed.

Review on Earthquake Safety Bed Authenticated by GPS

An innovative earthquake safety bed system integrated with GPS technology to enhance personal safety during seismic events. The proposed system utilizes real-time earthquake detection through seismic sensors, triggered an automated response that activates safety mechanisms within the bed. GPS technology is incorporated to track the bed`s location, ensuring precise data for rescue operations and post-events analysis. System aims to minimizes injuries by providing protection features such as automatic shielding, securing the user in place, and activating emergency alerts to near by responders. By combining seismic sensing with GPS based location tracking, the earthquake safety bed offers a proactive solution to reduce harm during earthquakes, offering both immediate protection and aiding post events recovery efforts. Key Words: GPS authentication, emergency response system, protection shields, microcontroller ATmega328p, piezo sensor, safety protection.

A decade of shaking in the Garden City: the dynamics of preparedness, perceptions, and beliefs in Canterbury, New Zealand, and implications for earthquake information

IntroductionThis study explored earthquake preparedness over time—before, during, and 10 years after the Canterbury Earthquake Sequence (CES) in New Zealand (NZ; known as Aotearoa in te ao Māori).MethodSurveys of Canterbury residents were conducted in 2009, 2013, and 2021, using variables derived from Community Engagement Theory (CET). The surveys measured earthquake perceptions and beliefs, participation and engagement, and preparedness actions. Results were compared across the three samples.ResultsFindings indicate that perceptions and beliefs (e.g., risk perception, outcome expectancy beliefs), and types of preparedness actions taken (e.g., collection of survival items, structural preparedness, community and/or agency relationships), differed over time, depending on people's experiences before, during, and after the CES. For example, during and after the CES, people were more likely to believe that preparing provided a benefit to daily life, but less likely to think it could reduce property damage, perhaps due to people's experiences of disruption and damage during the earthquakes.DiscussionAn understanding of such dynamics can assist with the provision and timing of risk and preparedness information. This study highlights the importance of providing applicable and actionable preparedness information, that is relevant to people's experiences, throughout an earthquake sequence. Such information might evolve and change in focus over time depending on risks and needs. Focus could also be given to information that builds peoples beliefs and capacities to undertake preparedness in evolving situations. Understanding preparedness in the context of different experiences and timeframes is useful in helping update models such as the CET, where the dynamics of time might be better incorporated.

Understanding seismic hazard resilience in Montenegro: A qualitative analysis of community preparedness and response capabilities

Abstract Enhancing resilience against seismic hazards in earthquake-prone regions is essential for reducing the devastating impacts of disasters. Seismic resilience refers to a community’s ability to withstand and recover from earthquake impacts, while preparedness gaps are the areas where current measures are insufficient to effectively respond to or mitigate earthquake damage. This study focuses on Montenegro – a region with frequent seismic activity – aiming to assess resilience levels, identify critical gaps in preparedness, and evaluate the effectiveness of existing response strategies. Using qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews, the research gathered insights from residents of Montenegro’s most vulnerable cities: Nikšić, Podgorica, Bar, Kotor, Cetinje, Budva, Herceg Novi, and Berane. Participants, chosen for their first-hand experience with significant earthquake impacts, provided valuable perspectives on various aspects of resilience, from local government response to individual preparedness. This research revealed significant disparities in resilience across communities: for instance, approximately 62.5% of the respondents highlighted inadequate education as a barrier to effective earthquake preparedness, and only 37.5% reported awareness of basic earthquake response procedures. Furthermore, while some communities, such as urban areas with accessible services, reported higher preparedness levels, rural areas showed deficiencies, with 50% of the respondents from these areas identifying a lack of organized drills and limited public awareness initiatives. These findings underscore the urgent need for community-specific preparedness programs and enhancements in both structural resilience and public education to bolster community readiness effectively. Also, findings highlight the need for customized preparedness programs tailored to specific community needs, alongside improvements in structural safety measures and educational outreach. The study underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach involving detailed risk assessments, community-focused preparedness training, and stronger public awareness initiatives. Furthermore, the study calls for enhanced local government capabilities to sustain proactive response measures, including rapid mobilization of emergency resources and regular disaster simulations, to build long-term resilience across communities.

Earthquake Preparedness for Operating Room Staff: Lessons Learned From Experiences and the Literature.

Earthquakes pose hazards to health care workers and patients in operating rooms. Proactive planning based on insights gained from past experiences is crucial for enhancing safety. Through a comprehensive literature review, we summarize challenges and lessons learned from real earthquake events to inform the development of effective safety measures in operating rooms. Additionally, we discuss the anesthesiologist's role in crisis management.

Mitigation strategies and policies recommendation for the economic impact of the Sunda Strait Megathrust: Seismic risk probability assessment and cost loss estimates

This study investigates seismic risk and potential impacts of future earthquakes in the Sunda Strait region, known for its susceptibility to significant seismic events due to the subduction of the Indo-Australian Plate beneath the Eurasian Plate. The aim is to assess the likelihood of major earthquakes, estimate their impact, and propose strategies to mitigate associated risks. The research uses historical seismic data and probabilistic models to forecast earthquakes with magnitudes ranging from 6.0 to 8.2 Mw. The Gutenberg-Richter model helps project potential earthquake occurrences and their impacts. The findings suggest that the probability of a major earthquake could occur as early as 2026–2027, with a more significant event estimated to likely occur around 2031. Economic estimates for a 7.8–8.2 Mw earthquake suggest potential damage of up to USD 1.255 billion with significant loss of life. The study identifies key vulnerabilities, such as inadequate building foundations and ineffective disaster management infrastructure, which could worsen the impact of future seismic events. In conclusion, the research highlights the urgent need for comprehensive seismic risk mitigation strategies. Recommendations include reinforcing infrastructure to comply with seismic standards, implementing advanced early warning systems, and enhancing public education on earthquake preparedness. Additionally, government policies must address these issues by increasing funding for disaster management, enforcing building regulations, and incorporating traditional knowledge into construction practices. These measures are essential to reducing future earthquake impacts and improving community resilience.

Effectiveness of Activity Supported Earthquake Awareness Education Program in Primary School Children: "I Know What I Need to Do, I'm Not Falling Even If We Shake" Project.

The objective of this study was to enhance the knowledge base of primary school children regarding earthquake preparedness through the implementation of an activity-based earthquake awareness education program. The study was conducted as pre-posttest semi-experimental design with one group of 333 children in a primary school between January and May 2024. A Descriptive Information Form and Earthquake Awareness Knowledge Level Form were the data collection tools. The children were provided with a 6-week (modules) education program. Measurements were made before and after the education. The mean age of the children was 7.16±0.73 years (6-9), 56.8% were girls, 43.2% were boys, and 25.8% were second-grade children. Earthquake Awareness Knowledge Level Form total score was higher after the education (18.31±1.52) than before (15.51±3.73) (t=-16.144, p<0.001). The study revealed an increase in children's knowledge regarding appropriate behaviors in the context of earthquakes, encompassing actions to be taken before, during, and after such events. Modular education and applied activities are effective in increasing children's knowledge levels in the context of teaching a concept such as earthquake preparedness, where the acquisition of life-based skills is of paramount importance.

From Earthquake Preparedness to Urban Renewal: unveiling the forces behind Israel's national master plan (TAMA 38) transformation

From Earthquake Preparedness to Urban Renewal: unveiling the forces behind Israel's national master plan (TAMA 38) transformation

Long-term communication of aftershock forecasts: The Canterbury earthquake sequence in New Zealand

On 14 February 2016, a magnitude (M)5.7 earthquake struck in Christchurch New Zealand (Aotearoa in the Maori language). The shaking caused damage to historic facades, power outages, cliff collapses, rock falls, and liquefaction but no reported injuries or fatalities. This Valentine’s Day earthquake was an aftershock in the Canterbury earthquake sequence (CES), which began on 4 September 2010 with the M7.1 Darfield Earthquake and included the destructive and fatal M6.2 Christchurch aftershock on 22 February 2011. This study, eight months after the Valentine’s Day earthquake and six years after the initiation of the CES, is the first to explore long-term aftershock forecast information and communication needs. The exploratory study also aimed to gather feedback on aftershock scenarios, an alternative form for communicating the forecast.The qualitative study involved workshops with emergency managers, public health officials, and members of the public in Christchurch. Key findings for long-term communication throughout an earthquake sequence include: 1. divergent earthquake experiences affect aftershock communication response and information needs; 2. understanding aftershock sequence behavior is foundational to sense-making when large aftershocks occur; 3. strategic earthquake sequence updates from the trusted science agency and local agencies could serve as important reminders for earthquake preparedness; 4. communication of aftershock forecast uncertainty could aid with both the credibility of the information and living with uncertainty, and 5. inclusion of impact information and preparedness advice into aftershock forecast scenarios could provide links to actionable information. The paper derives implications for research and practice of long-term communications during an aftershock sequence.

Realistic modelling of contributions by floor slabs in the earthquake safety assessment of buildings

ABSTRACT The conventional structural design of buildings often neglects the significant contributions of the coupling action of the floor slabs, potentially leading to unsafe designs against seismic actions. The interaction between reinforced concrete (RC) frames and shear walls, especially through slabs, plays a crucial role in the structure’s behaviour under seismic loading. In Australian construction, where wall-type systems are prevalent, it is essential to understand the complex interactions between coupled walls and columns facilitated by slabs. This study addresses this issue by proposing an innovative strain-based model, validated through finite element analysis. The proposed model, when compared with existing simplified models, demonstrates superior accuracy and effectiveness. This innovative approach not only enhances our understanding of seismic behaviour but also offers a straightforward solution that can be easily implemented in practice. Key findings reveal that slab interaction increases material strain and inelastic force capacity while reducing displacement capacity, particularly affecting smaller elements like gravity load-carrying columns. This improved understanding can lead to more effective strategies for enhancing the seismic resilience of RC buildings.

Smart Green Concrete: Innovation of Concrete Materials from Fly ash Waste and Lapindo Mud Integrated Smart E. crassipes Coir Geotextile to Realize Indonesia's Sustainable Infrastructure

Pariaman City, situated near the Semangko fault and the Indo-Australian plate subduction zone, is highly prone to earthquakes and tsunamis. To address this, the Earthquake Buddy Application (EDY App) was developed as an innovative solution for disaster mitigation. EDY App utilizes Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to provide real-time earthquake vulnerability maps, early warnings, and evacuation route suggestions to Temporary Evacuation Sites (TES). It also offers education on earthquake preparedness and facilitates donations for relief efforts. The application’s main contribution lies in its integration of comprehensive disaster management tools into one platform. By providing critical information during emergencies, the app empowers users to make informed decisions, which can reduce casualties in high-risk areas. The app also encourages community preparedness by offering accessible education on earthquake mitigation. EDY App is designed to create a disaster-resilient society in Pariaman, ensuring that residents are better equipped to respond to natural disasters through real-time alerts and evacuation support, ultimately enhancing local preparedness and reducing the potential impact of future earthquakes.

Surface deformation and its implications for land degradation after the 2021 Flores earthquake (M7.4) using differential interferometry synthetic aperture radar

On December 14, 2021, an earthquake with a magnitude of 7.4 originated from the Flores Sea, impacting Kalaotoa Island in Indonesia, resulting in significant structural damage. Macroseismic observations at the site classified that there were 120 buildings slightly damaged, 108 buildings moderately damaged, and 201 buildings heavily damaged. The shakemap shows that Kalaotoa Island experienced VI-VII MMI shaking. The results of the field survey showed many indications of subsidence as many fractures were found in Kalaotoa Island. This study employed Differential Interferometry Synthetic Aperture Radar (DInSAR) to quantify land subsidence and uplift in Kalaotoa Island before and after the earthquake. Sentinel-1A satellite radar data from December 2 and December 14, 2021, were analyzed. The results revealed subsidence of up to 12 cm in Garaupa Raya Village and uplift of up to ±10 cm in Lembang Mate’ne Village. Approximately 50.50% of Kalaotoa Island experienced subsidence (39.4 km²), primarily in Garaupa Village (18.85 km²), while 49.02% of the island experienced uplift (38.2 km²), mostly in Lembang Mate’ne Village (19.03 km²). This spatial analysis underscores the efficacy of DInSAR in detecting and mapping surface deformation, offering critical insights for earthquake preparedness, mitigation efforts for impacted landscape topography, stability soils, structure of ecosystems, and infrastructure resilience.

THE POPULATION OF MILA FACING THE EARTHQUAKE OF AUGUST 07, 2020

The surge in urbanization within regions vulnerable to seismic activity poses a significant escalation in seismic risks. Effective mitigation strategies, reliant on improved architectural practices and behavioral adaptations, are imperative to curtail the toll of seismic events. Seismic vulnerability, intricately intertwined with seismic hazard, building conditions, and populace preparedness, underscores the need for comprehensive risk assessment. Although studies elucidating seismic risk knowledge and behaviors are scant in Algeria, they are more prevalent in Mediterranean regions. This paper delves into the examination of risk culture, discerning both direct and indirect causative factors behind the seismic disaster that befell Mila on August 7, 2020.Employing a research methodology that integrates the method Did You Feel It (DYFI USGS ) with a survey model used in Beirut, Lebanon.The findings offer notable insights for two principal reasons. Firstly, local perceptions of the seismic event's severity surpassed estimates by the US Geological Survey (USGS). Secondly, despite the relatively minor magnitude of seismic effects in the El Kherba neighborhood, the populace displayed inadequate preparedness for future earthquakes. Additionally, site-specific factors exerted substantial influence on crisis outcomes. In this context, the preparedness of Algerian society for seismic risks depends on understanding the phenomenon, recognizing associated hazards, and identifying available resources. Contribution: this study serves as a pivotal resource for fostering proactive local population preparedness and mitigating natural risks. Furthermore, it seeks to augment the efficacy of policies aimed at managing natural disaster risks in Algeria.

Disaster Risk Perception and Sustainable Earthquake Awareness Among Public and Private University Nursing Students.

This research was conducted in descriptive type to determine the disaster risk perception and sustainable earthquake awareness of nursing students studying at public and private universities. The study sample consisted of 400 nursing students studying at one public and one private university. The research was conducted between April and May 2023. The data were collected using a Sociodemographic Form, University Students Disaster Risk Perception Scale (USDRPS), and Sustainable Earthquake Awareness Scale (SEAS). Data were collected online using a questionnaire created on Google Forms. Analyses included frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation values, independent groups t-test, post-hoc Tukey test, LSD, and ANOVA test. Of the students, 61.8% had a disaster experience, 17.4% had lost a relative in the disaster, and 76.8% did not consider themselves prepared for a possible disaster. In the study, the exposure sub-dimension score of the disaster risk perception scale was found to be higher in students who had disaster experience than in those who did not (p=0.032). Nursing students from the private university had higher sustainable earthquake awareness scores than those studying at the state university (p=0.001). The mean scores of female students on the earthquake preparedness and preparation application sub-dimensions showed a significant difference compared to the scores of male students (p=0.016). In the study, sustainable earthquake awareness total and earthquake preparedness sub-dimension scores were higher in second-year nursing students than in students of other years (p=0.042; 0.015). Those who had received disaster training had low scores on the uncontrollable sub-dimension of the disaster risk perception scale, and high scores on the total SEAS and earthquake-structure relationship, earthquake preparedness, and earthquake preparation application sub-dimensions (p<0.05). In the study, three out of four students did not find themselves prepared for disasters. Those who had disaster experience had higher disaster risk perceptions. Students who had received disaster-related training had more positive earthquake preparedness, earthquake-structure relationship, and earthquake preparation applications than those who had not. Students who were female and were in the second year had higher earthquake awareness. Studies can be carried out to inform people about the pre-disaster and preparation stages to raise awareness about disasters at universities. Education on disaster management can be integrated into courses from the first years of university.

Seismic Performance Evaluation of Irregular Auditorium Building based on ASCE 41-23

This study discusses the seismic performance evaluation of an irregular auditorium building. The building is an educational facility which has roof span up to 46 meters, column height up to 10 meters, beam span up to 15 meters, cantilever up to 6.50 meters, 2 inclined columns with the angle up to 54.72°, and 1 transfer column with 1 transfer beam. The evaluation process was carried out using Tier 3 method with linear dynamic procedure which consisted of Response Spectrum Analysis (RSA) and Linear Time History Analysis (LTHA) according to ASCE 41-23 using SAP2000 subjected to short (S s ) and long (S ) period of earthquakes. The building is designed to Risk Category IV, which the target performance levels for structural components are Immediate Occupancy (IO) for Basic Safety Earthquake 1 for New Building (BSE-1N) and Life Safety (LS) for Basic Safety Earthquake 2 for New Building (BSE-2N). Even though the building had a torsional strength irregularity, the percentage of components with a Demand-Capacity Ratio value that did not meet the requirements was 9.87% of the total components; hence the linear procedure was assumed to be still applicable. Analyses showed that the average acceptance criteria ratio of the components with the RSA method was lower than with the LTHA method but the percentage of the components with acceptance criteria ratio exceeding 1 using RSA method was higher than using the LTHA method. In addition, the results indicated that the average performance level of the components was IO for BSE-1N and LS for BSE-2N, which both results had met the expected performance level targets. However, the maximum performance level of the components did not meet the IO performance level target for BSE-1N and did not meet the LS performance level target for BSE-2N.

AI-Driven Innovations in Earthquake Risk Mitigation: A Future-Focused Perspective

This study explores the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in revolutionizing earthquake risk mitigation across six key areas. Unlike traditional approaches, this paper examines how AI-driven innovations can uniquely enhance early warning systems, enabling real-time structural health monitoring, and providing dynamic, multi-hazard risk assessments that seamlessly integrate seismic data with other natural hazards such as tsunamis and landslides. It introduces groundbreaking applications of AI in earthquake-resilient design, where generative design algorithms and predictive analytics create structures that optimally balance safety, cost, and sustainability. The study also presents a novel discussion on the ethical implications of AI in this domain, stressing the critical need for transparency, accountability, and bias mitigation. Looking forward, the manuscript envisions the development of advanced AI platforms capable of delivering real-time, personalized risk assessments, immersive public training programs, and collaborative design tools that adapt to evolving seismic data. These innovations promise not only to significantly enhance current earthquake preparedness but also to pave the way toward a future where the societal impact of earthquakes is drastically reduced. This work underscores the potential of AI’s role in shaping a safer, more resilient future, emphasizing the importance of continued innovation, ethical governance, and collaborative efforts.

Earthquake Risk Perception and Preparedness of a Sample of Residents Following a Major Earthquake in Türkiye in 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate these residents’ levels of earthquake risk perception and preparedness following the disastrous earthquake event on 6 February 2023 near Kahramanmaraş in Türkiye. The study involved a cross-sectional descriptive design. A sample of convenience comprising 411 residents of areas not impacted directly by the 6 February 2023 earthquakes completed an online survey over a three-month period March to May 2023. There was no indication of notably elevated levels of earthquake risk perception among those residents surveyed overall. Levels of physical, or material, preparedness for earthquakes were lower than desirable. Earthquake risk perception was negatively, though weakly, related to both physical and psychological preparedness. Physical preparedness was strongly and positively correlated with psychological preparedness. Having (a)past earthquake experience (b)read or viewed earthquake safety material, (c)attended earthquake safety meetings and (d)work experience related to emergencies were all associated with significantly higher levels of residents’ preparedness. Although the information was collected a short time after a disastrous earthquake event when overall levels of community awareness of the danger posed by earthquakes were likely to be high, the findings about the levels of a possible earthquake preparedness were not satisfactory. Possible implications for improving community earthquake preparedness are discussed.

Earthquake preparedness based on reliability and relief of emergency supply network: Pre-storage and pre-matching

Earthquake preparedness based on reliability and relief of emergency supply network: Pre-storage and pre-matching

Impact of Earthquakes on Lung Health.

Earthquakes are catastrophic natural disasters that cause extensive damage to infrastructure and disrupt the lives of millions worldwide. Beyond the immediate physical and psychological damage caused by earthquakes, these events can significantly impact respiratory health. The inhalation of dust, smoke, particulates, toxic gases, and asbestos exposure can lead to various respiratory health pathologies. These include respiratory infections, exacerbations of pre-existing respiratory diseases, chest traumas, and pulmonary and venous thromboembolism. Longitudinal studies are necessary to assess the long-term respiratory health effects in affected populations. By addressing these knowledge gaps, future mitigation strategies and preparedness measures can be developed to minimize the respiratory health impacts of earthquakes and improve the well-being of affected communities. Robust building infrastructure and comprehensive earthquake preparedness are emerging as the most important determinants for not only mitigating building collapse but also significantly reducing the potential health impacts that follow. This comprehensive review aims to provide a systematic overview of the lung health impacts of earthquakes. It highlights the need for further research to identify specific pollutants, air contaminants, and environmental factors contributing to respiratory health issues following earthquakes.