Lifeline Earthquake Vulnerability Assessment

This paper discusses the vulnerability of lifelines (major utilities and infrastructure systems such as those relating to water, energy, and communications) to earthquake. Direct, induced, and indirect impacts are considered. The inter- and intradependent character of lifelines is recognized and frameworks are introduced to facilitate the appraisal of lifeline vulnerability in the context of multiple interrelationships, stakeholders, and information sources as well as instances of incomplete or insuffi cient available data. The development of complete event scenarios is discussed, as a method of creating a holistic picture of potential impacts. The frameworks and methodology presented here are then demonstrated by application to the province of Brescia, Italy, an area subject to seismic activity. These vulnerability assessment techniques are proposed by the authors as an initial though highly integrated basis for future research.