Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
31
Strategies for rapid global earthquake impact
estimation: the Prompt Assessment of Global
Earthquakes for Response (PAGER) system
K. S. JAISWAL and D. J. WA L D,
National Earthquake Information Center, USA
DOI
: 10.1533/9780857098986.5.839
Abstract
: This chapter summarizes the state-of-the-art for rapid
earthquake impact estimation. It details the needs and challenges
associated with quick estimation of earthquake losses following global
earthquakes, and provides a brief literature review of various approaches
that have been used in the past. With this background, the chapter
introduces the operational earthquake loss estimation system developed
by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) known as PAGER (for Prompt
Assessment of Global Earthquakes for Response). It also details some
of the ongoing developments of PAGER's loss estimation models to
better supplement the operational empirical models, and to produce
value-added web content for a variety of PAGER users.
Key words
: rapid, earthquake impact, fatalities, economic loss, Prompt
Assessment of Global Earthquakes for Response (PAGER).
31.1 Introduction
The ability to quickly assess the potential impact (in terms of potential
injuries, deaths, physical damage to housing and infrastructure, affected
population, and immediate and or long-term economic consequences) due
to any earthquake worldwide is essential for coordinating post-earthquake
response and recovery efforts. Improved scientifi c and engineering assess-
ments following signifi cant earthquakes can directly help execute post-
earthquake activities effi ciently. The activities include assessing immediate
search and rescue needs, planning and consolidating available resources for
response operations, identifying shelter and health care needs, and provid-
ing aid in terms of food, safe drinking water, and sanitation to the affected
communities. Each of these tasks can pose a signifi cant challenge depending
upon the scale of the disaster and on-the-ground circumstances. Rapid post-
earthquake loss estimation systems are developed primarily to address
several aspects of these needs; however, there are signifi cant challenges
involved in deriving such estimates.
839
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