Natural Hazards in Hydrocarbon Exploration and Production Assessments

Abstract

The overall purpose of this book has been to describe the main types of geological hazards present in the region of the South Caspian Basin, and to try to quantify, where possible, the probabilities of occurrence and the spatial scales of such catastrophic events. Using methods given in the body of the book one can calculate or estimate the chances of occurrence (or nonoccurrence). Such events can lead to catastrophic financial losses for a company during the years of hydrocarbon exploration, development and production in an area of interest. As has been shown, an eruption of a mud volcano or associated flames, mud flows and hydrate explosions can destroy platforms, pipelines and other equipment. All of those factors should be kept in mind when decisions on exploration and exploitation are made.