some thoughts on the use of seismographic networks to promote global earthquake risk management

GeoHazards International

Some Thoughts on the Use of Seismographic Networks

to Promote Global Earthquake Risk Management

Brian Tucker

GeoHazards International (GHI)USGS-NSF-IRIS Workshop

August 23, 2005


Outline

• Global Earthquake Risk

• Promoting Global Earthquake Risk Management

• Specific Suggestions for GEOSS


Population of 20 Largest At-Risk Cities

0

50

100

150

200

250

1950

1955

1960

1965

1970

1975

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

Year

Pop

ula

tion

(M

illio

ns) Developed

Developing


(Results from Max Wyss)

Scenario Earthquake

Since then, population

increased by factor of…

and number of deaths

increased by factor of…

1897, Shillong, M8.3

8 60

1950, Assam, M8.6

3 30


Population of 20 Largest At-Risk Cities

0

50

100

150

200

250

1950

1955

1960

1965

1970

1975

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

Year

Pop

ula

tion

(M

illio

ns) Developed

Developing


Earthquake Engineering Research

1950-75

Aimed at Needs of Developing Countries

1975-2000

Aimed at Needs of Industrialized Countries


Promoting Global Eq. Risk Management

• Increase demand for eq. risk management by:• Increasing understanding of the risk• Increasing awareness of affordable solutions

• Increase capability of local organizations by:• Increasing their reputation• Increasing their resources• Increasing their collaboration


Specific Suggestions for GEOSS Targets

1. Rapid distribution of eq. effects, M, & location• Focused distribution (a la MoveOn) to news media,

gov’t offices and technical orgs• Mention local technical orgs that can provide

details and explanation

Result:• Increased understanding of eq. risk• Increased reputation of local orgs


Specific Suggestions (cont’d)

2. Convene workshops about regional eq risk and risk management

• Co-hosted by local organizations• Involving international and local - scientists,

engineers, urban planners, and emergency responders - from academies, gov’t agencies and businesses

Result:• Increased reputation of and collaboration among

local orgs• Raised awareness of solution, not just problem


Thank you

some thoughts on the use of seismographic networks to promote global earthquake risk management

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