A Web-GIS Platform for Real-Time Scenario-Based Seismic Risk Assessment at National Level

The paper presents the main features of a Web-GIS platform able to compute real-time scenario-based seismic risk assessment at national level. The platform, based on the Italian experience, has been designed to enable DRM scientist and policy makers to readily produce seismic scenarios to support the entire DRM cycle, including training, emergency planning, calibrating emergency operations in the response phase, and providing seismic risk estimates for National Disaster Risk Assessment or Seismic Risk reduction programs. The platform is immediately operational, using preloaded freeware datasets on exposure and vulnerability, and requiring only basic earthquake parameters to perform real-time analysis. At a later stage, the preloaded datasets may be replaced with more detailed and accurate data at the national level. The platform generates earthquake impact assessments, including physical damage, economic and human losses to exposed assets, and key indicators for emergency response, such as estimated number of displaced people, required tent camps, EMT and USAR needs. The platform's key innovation lies in its ability to operate at the national scale, offering immediate usability and possibility of further customization. It is a web-based service and features a user-friendly graphical interface, making it especially effective for use by civil protection and DRM experts.