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  • MYANMAR RISK MODELLING | Global Earthquake Model Foundation

    Projects MYANMAR RISK MODELLING Development of an Earthquake Risk Model for Myanmar. GEM contribution to ADB TA 9307-MYA: Strengthening Climate and Disaster Resilience of Myanmar Communities Versión en español English version Share Facebook LinkedIn Overview Anchor 6 Background The Government of Myanmar has identified in its disaster risk management (DRM) and climate change adaptation (CCA) related policy frameworks the increasing suffering of the population from disasters, and the need for support in strengthening resilience to extreme weather events. Accordingly, since 2015, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has supported the Government of Myanmar develop a National Framework for Community Disaster Resilience, which identifies potential opportunities for strengthening resilience of communities through investments in key sectors and themes of development, such as, agriculture, rural development, and financial inclusion, among others. The proposed technical assistance (TA) project responds to the request from the Government of Myanmar to support its implementation of the National Framework for Community Disaster Resilience. As part of this project, the ADB contracted the GEM Foundation to provide updated seismic hazard, exposure, vulnerability, and seismic risk information for Myanmar, with risk information presented at the third administrative level. Objective The main objective of this project was to develop, in collaboration with experts from the Myanmar Earthquake Committee, updated exposure, vulnerability, and seismic risk information for Myanmar, with risk information presented at the third administrative level. Collaborators GEM Foundation, Myanmar Earthquake Committee (MEC) Funding partner: Asian Development Bank (ADB) Location Myanmar Anchor 1 Anchor 5 Anchor 4 Anchor3 Publications

  • COMET GEM | Global Earthquake Model Foundation

    Projects COMET GEM COMET-GEM Central Asia Seismic Hazard Project Versión en español English version Share Facebook LinkedIn Overview Anchor 6 Background Since 2021, COMET and GEM have partnered to integrate the latest advancements in earthquake science into seismic hazard and risk modeling. The first phase of the collaboration (2020–2022) focused on building essential datasets, including an active fault database, a homogenized earthquake catalog, GNSS data, and a preliminary seismic hazard model for Central Asia. The ongoing second phase (2023–2025), supported by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), UK, expands on these efforts by incorporating time-dependent hazard modeling, earthquake clustering analysis, and geodetic data processing. By bridging scientific research with practical applications, the collaboration ensures that hazard models remain at the forefront of earthquake risk assessment, strengthening disaster preparedness efforts in Central Asia and beyond. Duration: Phase 1: 2021 -2023, Phase 2: 2023 - 2025 More details: https://comet.nerc.ac.uk/ Overall Objective The COMET-GEM collaboration aims to develop an advanced, publicly accessible seismic hazard and risk model for Central Asia, integrating cutting-edge scientific methods such as satellite geodesy, palaeoseismology, and geodetic data analysis. The goal is to provide local communities, researchers, and policymakers with robust hazard and risk assessments to inform disaster risk reduction strategies and enhance preparedness for future seismic events. Specific Objectives / Expected Outputs 1. Enhancing Seismic Hazard Models Refining fault databases, earthquake catalogs, and strain rate fields to improve hazard predictions. Incorporating time-dependent earthquake occurrence models and earthquake clustering analysis to improve forecasting. 2. Integrating Advanced Scientific Techniques Utilizing InSAR-based deformation data and GNSS datasets to quantify seismic strain accumulation across Central Asia. Developing high-resolution geodetic velocity fields for improved hazard modeling. 3. Supporting Disaster Risk Reduction Integrating hazard models into seismic risk assessments to estimate economic and human losses. Engaging local communities and stakeholders in seismic hazard model development. 4. Collaborative Research and Capacity Building Hosting workshops and training sessions to enhance regional expertise in seismic hazard assessment. Supporting research collaborations in Central Asia, the South Caucasus, and beyond. Collaborators Project Coordination: COMET and GEM, with contributions from UK-based institutions Global Earthquake Model (GEM) Foundation COMET (Centre for Observation and Modelling of Earthquakes, Volcanoes & Tectonics) British Geological Survey (BGS) University of Oxford (geologic data compilation) University of Leeds (geodetic data processing) Various local and international research institutions Funding Partner: Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), UK Locations Primary Focus Region: Central Asia Additional Areas of Study: South Caucasus, Türkiye, Mongolia Anchor 1 Anchor 5 Anchor 4 Anchor3 Publications

  • CAREC Phase II | Global Earthquake Model Foundation

    Projects CAREC Phase II CAREC Phase II: Developing a Disaster and Climate Risk Transfer Facility in the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation Region Versión en español English version Share Facebook LinkedIn Overview Updates Anchor 6 Overview This project builds upon the modelling and analytical work conducted under TA-9878 ( https://www.globalquakemodel.org/proj/carec ) and involves the preparation and implementation of a pilot disaster relief bond (DRB) that will be issued by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for two countries, namely, the Kyrgyz Republic and Tajikistan. The pilot DRB will complement existing climate and disaster risk financing tools and will be structured to encourage the adoption of risk-reduction and climate-adaptation actions. It will also direct relief assistance to the most vulnerable groups, including women and small and medium-sized enterprises, through pre-agreed response plans developed with the pilot countries. GEM's contribution to the project includes: Build upon the work conducted under TA-9878, review modeling to ensure that it is up-to-date and aligned with the pilot countries’ and investors’ expectations Update exposure data for the two pilot countries based on updated housing and socio-economic data Update seismic hazard and risk modelling for the two pilot countries to serve as the basis for the DRB structuring and placement Undertake historical events analysis for the two pilot countries, considering all potentially damaging events since 1907 Provide earthquake model outputs required to determine the trigger form, level of coverage, and size and positioning of the DRB (when the policy attaches, detaches and how much it pays), in close consultation with WTW, Munich Re, Verisk, ADB, and the pilot countries Update the earthquake data underlying the user-friendly graphic interface developed in the previous CAREC project for the two pilot countries, to help illustrate modeling results and cost-benefits of the risk transfer options as well as disaster risk reduction measures, allowing capacity building, facilitating consultation workshops and supporting the decision process Support the preparation of knowledge products on earthquake risk modeling and financing Duration: 2025-2026 Objectives Key objectives involved: Review existing risk modelling for earthquakes in the Kyrgyz Republic and Tajikistan, and update and perform more detailed and granular risk modeling, as required; Conduct dynamic risk analysis to estimate capital requirements, reinsurance options, and the impacts of various historical or possible future scenarios on the facility’s operations; Support capacity building workshops to enhance countries’ understanding of disaster risk, including insurance solutions, and the process required for making informed disaster risk financing decisions; and Provide modeling outputs through a transparent and user-friendly interface/tool to inform the terms and design of the facility’s initial product offering, ensuring that is both relevant to the countries and financially sustainable over the longer term. Collaborators Collaborators: Willis Towers Watson (WTW), GEM Foundation, Munich Re, Verisk Funding partner: Asian Development Bank (ADB) Location Kyrgyz Republic Tajikistan Anchor 1 Anchor 5 Anchor 4 New ADB Program to Help Kyrgyz Republic and Tajikistan Respond to Disasters The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $56.4 million program to help the Kyrgyz Republic and Tajikistan boost their capacity to respond to disasters. Both countries are vulnerable to disasters, such as earthquakes and floods, but lack the fiscal capacity and risk transfer mechanisms to effectively respond to hazards. The Risk-Layered Disaster Relief Finance Program will enhance their financial preparedness through a combination of two pre-arranged ADB financing instruments targeting different layers of disaster risks. Project Data Sheet Asian Development Bank (ADB) project materials - overview, project details, documents. Anchor3 Publications

  • SERENE Project | Global Earthquake Model Foundation

    Projects SERENE Project Scientific Evidence for Risk Engineering Norms and Education (SERENE) Versión en español English version Share Facebook LinkedIn Overview Anchor 6 The SERENE Project stands for Scientific Evidence for Risk Engineering Norms and Education . It’s a strategic, public-private partnership between the National Building Review Board (NBRB) and the Global Earthquake Model (GEM) Foundation, a globally recognized authority on seismic hazard and risk modeling. This multi-year program brings together world-class seismic risk models, technical mentorship, and national policy frameworks to strengthen Uganda’s ability to withstand earthquake-related disasters. This initiative is all about protecting lives, homes, schools, hospitals, and infrastructure across Uganda by applying world-class science and data to strengthen how we plan, build, and regulate our cities. While natural hazards cannot be prevented, many building-related disasters - particularly fires and structural failures - are avoidable through improved design, compliance, and enforcement. SERENE integrates both natural and human-induced risks to support a safer and more resilient built environment. SERENE is not only a seismic risk initiative - it is a national platform for understanding and reducing risks in the built environment, including those arising from fires, building failures, and unsafe construction practices. For more information, please visit: https://serene-project.nbrb.go.ug/ Goals of the Project The SERENE Project addresses seismic risk at every level, from scientific modelling to on-the-ground training. Its key goals include: Developing Uganda’s first national seismic hazard map Creating exposure models to assess vulnerable building stock Updating Uganda’s seismic code (US319:2003), seismic design updates, and disaster planning. Training engineers, inspectors, and policymakers Supporting disaster-preparedness and early warning strategies Enhancing regulations for future construction and retrofitting All of this aligns with Uganda’s Vision 2040, the National Development Plan (NDP IV), National Disaster Risk Reduction Strategy, Uganda Seismic Code modernization process and the Sustainable Development Goals Collaborators This partnership is formalized under a 3-year agreement (2025–2028), making Uganda the first African country to be granted full participation in GEM’s strategic governance without financial contribution. Uganda holds a Governor-level seat on GEM’s board, joining an elite global group shaping earthquake safety policy. NBRB A statutory body established under the Building Control Act, is mandated to promote and ensure planned, decent and safe building structures that are developed in harmony with the environment in Uganda. GEM Foundation Provides open-source software, seismic hazard models, technical mentorship, and access to global risk modelling platforms like OpenQuake. Location Uganda Anchor 1 Anchor 5 Anchor 4 Anchor3 Publications

  • EU DRR | Global Earthquake Model Foundation

    Projects EU DRR Regional risk modelling and scenario analysis for EU Member States - Seismic risk analysis and exposure data Versión en español English version Share Facebook LinkedIn Overview Anchor 6 Background This project supports the World Bank Technical Assistance project "Economic Analysis of Prevention and Preparedness in European Union Member States and Countries under EU Civil Protection Mechanism". The GEM Risk Team provides exposure and probabilistic seismic risk assessments for the 27 EU member states and 6 participating states, building upon the EFEHR ESHM20 hazard and ESRM20 exposure datasets [insert link www.efehr.org ], adding educational and healthcare building stock, and forecasting exposure to 2050. Further, retrofitted vulnerability curves are derived to inform the seismic impact analyses and a cost-benefit analysis. Duration: 2020-2021 Objectives The project is conducted in collaboration with the European Commission’s (EC) Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (DG ECHO). The objectives of this project are to: 1. Provide regionally-consistent probabilistic seismic risk metrics across Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM) countries for population and selected structure types, to inform macro-economic analysis that is to be conducted by the World Bank project team. 2. Provide seismic impact analysis for two selected earthquake scenarios with and without specified DRM intervention, to estimate the impact of that intervention on i) loss due to direct damage and ii) fatalities. This will contribute to cost-benefit analysis of EU-funded DRM investments conducted by the WB project team using the Triple-Dividend framework. Collaborators GEM Foundation Funding partner: World Bank Group Locations EU Member States Anchor 1 Anchor 5 Anchor 4 Anchor3 Publications

  • ARMENIA POST DRR | Global Earthquake Model Foundation

    Projects ARMENIA POST DRR Improving Post-Disaster Damage Data Collection to Inform Decision Making Versión en español English version Share Facebook LinkedIn Overview Anchor 6 Background This project, responding to a request from the World Bank for improved post-disaster damage collection, focuses on the collection of data on physical damage to assets such as buildings (residential, commercial, industrial, public), infrastructure, and crops. The aim is to evaluate the current state-of-the-art in post-disaster damage collection – in protocols, tools and systems – in order to identify a suitable protocol and toolset that could be adopted by the Government of Armenia that would be generalisable and available, allowing adoption by other national government agencies or interested parties. The GEM Foundation leads the consortium working on this project, with the GEM Risk Team undertaking the following main tasks: Review of existing protocols, tools and systems Design of a conceptual protocol and toolset Application to the context of Armenia Recommendations Duration: 2018 Objectives Collection of damage data following major disaster events is a fundamental exercise for a multitude of purposes, such as emergency management, resource allocation, fund mobilization and reconstruction planning. The processes involved, and scales of damage assessments vary by country, peril and context. Numerous sector-specific data collection activities provide an estimation of damage, loss and post-disaster needs in order to provide relief and facilitate the commencement of reconstruction and recovery efforts. The project includes identifying and reviewing tools for collecting data in the field as well as damage data aggregation and reporting tools. Of particular interest is the use case in Armenia, demonstrating the needs of a Ministry of Finance requiring national-level reporting of damage on a sub-national level in a transparent system that allows the user to store, retrieve and interrogate damage data down to the asset-level. Collaborators GEM Foundation, JBA Consulting, CIMA Foundation and Geocom Ltd Funding partner: World Bank Group Location Armenia Anchor 1 Anchor 5 Anchor 4 Anchor3 Publications

  • MALAWI MULTI-HAZARD | Global Earthquake Model Foundation

    Projects MALAWI MULTI-HAZARD Comprehensive Multi hazard Risk Assessment in Malawi Versión en español English version Share Facebook LinkedIn Overview Outcomes Training Outreach Photos Publications Anchor 6 Background Malawi is a country strongly affected by the impact of extreme events, exacerbated by rapid population growth and urbanisation. A multi-risk assessment is currently lacking at the national level, while it is available only at the local level in some districts. Therefore, the project consortium intends to produce, for the first time, hazard and risk maps on a national level with a level of detail useful also at provincial level, using a probabilistic risk assessment approach, both for single hazards and for multi-hazard conditions (i.e. extreme winds and precipitation, earthquakes, landslides, river floods). The GEM Risk Team is reponsible for the seismic risk assessment, comprising the modelling of the hazard, exposure and vulnerability components and the calculations of seismic risk in the OpenQuake engine. Duration: 2023-2024 Objectives In line with the guidelines of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, the multi-hazard probabilistic assessment carried out within the project provides risk estimates for both the most probable and frequent events, as well as for rare ones; at the same time, it allows for the analysis of events that have never been observed but may occur in the future, which is of particular importance considering the uncertainty caused by climate change. The assessment will therefore consider risks under current climate conditions as well as future conditions (2050-2100) under different climate change scenarios. For the realisation of the multi-risk assessment, the project partners will work closely with local stakeholders at all stages of the development, from data collection to the creation of the Risk Atlas and the Risk Information Web Platform, two tools that will collect information from the assessment and will make it easier to communicate and understand, thus following a capacity development approach that combines knowledge development with knowledge transfer. In addition, the partners will develop, again in collaboration with local stakeholders, a sustainability plan containing recommendations for maintaining and updating risk information, supporting the management, updating and accessibility of Malawi’s risk information by national and local authorities. Collaborators GEM Foundation, Centro Internazionale in Monitoraggio Ambientale (CIMA), Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS), British Geological Survey (BGS) Funding partner: World Bank Group Location Malawi Aiming to empower Malawi with a comprehensive understanding of disaster risks, the project will deliver the following key outputs: Comprehensive Hazard Identification and Assessment: A national-level assessment of various hazards in Malawi, including floods, droughts, landslides, earthquakes, and strong winds. Exposure Mapping: Creation of maps outlining the extent to which people, infrastructure, buildings, and agriculture are exposed to each hazard. Vulnerability Assessment: Evaluation of the physical (infrastructure, buildings) and social (poverty, access to resources) vulnerabilities of Malawian communities to these hazards. National Hazard and Risk Profiles: Development of comprehensive national profiles that detail the hazards, their potential impacts, and the level of risk faced by different regions and communities. Knowledge and Technology Transfer: Training and capacity building for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) practitioners and academic institutions in Malawi on using the multi-hazard risk assessment data and tools. Anchor 1 Anchor 5 b. Exposure and Vulnerability Data The exposure and vulnerability work was delivered to the client and presented in a dedicated training session in November 2023. a. Hands-on training on the Risk Atlas Database Training of the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DODMA) ICT team to install and utilise the Risk Atlas Database held in Salima, Malawi, from June 3-7, 2024. Platform deployment, knowledge transfer, maintenance and ownership This project builds a long-term plan for Malawian experts to manage the multi-hazard risk atlas database. Through trainings and knowledge transfer, local technicians will become self-sufficient in maintaining the system and training future users. This ensures the platform's sustainability and empowers Malawian authorities to fully utilize the risk information for informed decision-making. Anchor 4 GEM Contributes to Multi-Hazard Risk Assessment Progress in Malawi The Global Earthquake Model (GEM) Foundation actively participated in a Multi-Hazard Risk Assessment workshop held in Salima, Malawi, from June 3-7, 2024. This collaborative effort involved the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DODMA) as the host, alongside the International Centre for Environmental Monitoring (CIMA Research Foundation), Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS), and the British Geological Survey (BGS). Read more Anchor3 BUSINESS NEWS Multi-Hazard Risk Assessment workshop held in Salima, Malawi, from June 3-7, 2024 1/6 Publications

  • CAYMAN ISLANDS PSHA | Global Earthquake Model Foundation

    Projects CAYMAN ISLANDS PSHA Probabilistic seismic hazard assessment of Cayman Islands Versión en español English version Share Facebook LinkedIn Overview Anchor 6 Background Thr project aims to perform a probabilistic seismic hazard assessment for the Cayman Islands, and provide the seismic input necessary for the International Building Code (IBC). The GEM Hazard Team is responsible for the seismotectonic and geodynamic characterisation of the study area, the definition of distributed seismicity and fault sources, and the modelling of the epistemic uncertainties. Duration: 2020 Objectives The main objective is to provide input to the 2016 Cayman Islands Building Code, to support engineers in the seismic design and assessment of structures. Collaborators GEM Foundation, EUCENTRE Foundation Funding partner: Cayman Islands Government Location Cayman Islands Anchor 1 Anchor 5 Anchor 4 Anchor3 Publications

  • METIS | Global Earthquake Model Foundation

    Projects METIS Methods and Tools Innovation for Seismic Risk Assessment Versión en español English version Share Facebook LinkedIn Overview Outcomes Training Outreach Photos Publications Anchor 6 Background GEM is set to start a 3-year project called METIS or Methods and Tools Innovation for Seismic Risk Assessment funded by the European Commission. The project is part of the Safety margins determination for design basis-exceeding external hazards program. Electricite De France (EDF), a GEM technical collaborator, is coordinating the project which will be implemented in collaboration with 14 other organizations. GEM will contribute to the task on seismic hazard assessment and on PSA Tools and Methodology. In the hazard task, GEM will implement into the OQ Engine methods such as vector-valued probabilistic seismic hazard analysis (PSHA), cluster-based PSHA as well as new methods to propagate epistemic uncertainties. Research will also be carried out in the context of processing earthquake catalogues to remove aftershocks and foreshocks and on testing PSHA models. GEM’s contribution to the PSA Tools and Methodology will concentrate on testing risk results. Duration: 2020 - 2025 More details: https://metis-h2020.eu/ Objectives The objective of METIS is to translate research into practice through rigorous and efficient methodologies and tools to assess seismic safety of NPP (nuclear power plants). It also aims to innovate current practice by combining simulation with experimental data. The research will develop methods to improve the ability to define safety limits for extremely rare events, which go beyond current design analyses (i.e. design extension for earthquakes). The refined seismic PSA (probabilistic safety assessment) is expected to provide meaningful support in defining regulations for safe design of NPP, as well as for assessing plant safety in real-time in case of temporary unavailability of relevant safety equipment or structures. Collaborators Edf Energy R&D UK Centre Limited - United Kingdom Limited Liability Company Energorisk - Ukraine Helmholtz Zentrum Potsdam Deutschesgeoforschungszentrum Gfz - Germany Geodynamique Et Structure - France Institut De Radioprotection Et De Surete Nucleaire - France Istituto Universitario Di Studi Superiori Di Pavia - Italy Lgi Consulting - France National Technical University of Athens – NTUA - Greece State Enterprise State Scientific and Technical Center For Nuclear And Radiation Safety - Ukraine Technische Universitat Kaiserslautern - Germany Univerza V Ljubljani - Slovenia Geo-Research Institute - Japan North Carolina State University - United States The Regents of The University Of California - United States Location Europe Horizon 2020 METIS Project fact sheet Anchor 1 Anchor 5 Anchor 4 New Horizon 2020 project launched to develop an advanced approach for Seismic Risk Assessment of Nuclear Power Plants EdF and GEM METIS project collaboration from 2020 to 2024. Anchor3 Publications

  • BANGLADESH | Global Earthquake Model Foundation

    Projects BANGLADESH Earthquake Vulnerability and Systemic Risk Assessment in Bangladesh Versión en español English version Share Facebook LinkedIn Overview Outcomes Training Outreach Photos Publications Anchor 6 Background This project follows a specific support request made by the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief (MoDMR) to the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office (UNRCO) for a sub-national earthquake hazard and risk assessment in Bangladesh. The GEM Foundation has the role of technical expert lead of the project which will include the following activities: Needs and Gaps Assessment Technical Panel Formation and Initial Consultations Seismic Hazard Mapping Exposure Mapping Seismic Vulnerability Assessment Seismic Risk Mapping and Interpretation Stakeholder Consultation and Validation Preliminary Model Dissemination and Training Workshop Funding and technical partner: UNDRR Duration: 2023 - 2024 Objectives The main objective of this project is to develop a detailed, open, sub-national earthquake risk model and evaluate seismic risk for Bangladesh at the zila and upazila levels. The complete risk model will comprise a probabilistic seismic hazard model, a building exposure model, and a seismic fragility and vulnerability model for the building stock of Bangladesh. Additionally, it includes critical scenarios for key cities, identified based on the results of the probabilistic risk assessment and in consultation with local stakeholders and experts, in a panel led by the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief (MoDMR), and including representatives from the Ministry of Housing and Public Works, Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, Geological Survey of Bangladesh, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, and University of Dhaka.` Collaborators In collaboration with the GEM Foundation, the Technical Panel steering this seismic risk assessment initiative is a collaborative assembly of key stakeholders and experts. Led by the Additional Secretary of Bangladesh's Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief (MoDMR), it comprises representatives from vital entities, including the Department Of Disaster Management (DDM), the Fire Service and Civil Defence of Bangladesh, the Ministry of Housing & Public Works (MoHPW), and the Statistics and Informatics Division (SID) of the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS). In addition, the panel includes the participation of seasoned national experts specializing in seismic hazard and risk assessment from institutions such as the University of Dhaka (DU), Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), and Jahangirnagar University (JU). Further enriching the panel's knowledge base are contributions from the Geological Survey of Bangladesh, the Centre for Urban Studies (CUS), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Bangladesh.) Location Bangladesh Earthquake Hazard and Risk Assessment Results This section summarises the various assessments conducted to understand the potential impact of earthquakes in Bangladesh. These assessments cover a range of factors, including the likelihood and severity of ground shaking, liquefaction potential, exposure of people and buildings, vulnerability of infrastructure, and the overall seismic risk posed to the country. The following list details the outputs generated from each assessment. Bangladesh Profiles | Past Earthquakes **ALL RESULTS ARE PRELIMINARY AND UNDER REVIEW** a. Population and Building Exposure Exposure models play a critical role in seismic risk assessment by quantifying the potential exposure of buildings and infrastructure to earthquake hazards. These models are structured databases that catalogue the characteristics of buildings within a specific geographic area, including their location, construction material, age, occupancy type, and structural design. The depth and accuracy of this data directly influence the effectiveness of the seismic risk evaluations, as they allow for a detailed understanding of how different structures are likely to perform during an earthquake. Download Files d. Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Assessment The seismic hazard modelling and mapping section describes the approach taken to assess the seismic hazard in Bangladesh with the goal of creating a comprehensive seismic hazard model for Bangladesh that can be used for risk assessment and mitigation. The project started with a probabilistic seismic hazard model for the Indian subcontinent, which was updated and implemented for the OpenQuake engine. The model includes seismogenic source models, ground motion models, and considers various tectonic regions. This section also mentions the review of the seismic source model for northeast India and the improvements made to the model. Download Files f. Seismic Risk Assessment The project estimated seismic risk metrics utilising the OpenQuake-engine's stochastic event-based risk assessment calculator. A probabilistic seismic hazard analysis model was employed to generate earthquake rupture forecasts, forming a stochastic event set over a 100,000-year span. Economic and human losses were computed for each event, producing event loss tables and year loss tables. Risk metrics included exceedance probability curves and average annualized losses. Fatality and injury estimates relied on vulnerability models informed by global earthquake data, with a focus on South Asian building characteristics. Results were tabulated nationally and regionally by the project. The assessment also considers the exposure and risk of healthcare facilities, educational facilities, and the national road network to seismic hazards. Download Files b. Infrastructure Exposure In addition to residential, industrial, and commercial structures that were previously covered by GEM’s exposure models at the zila level (which have been updated to the upazila level during this project), we have also developed exposure models for the healthcare and educational facilities at the country, including all hospitals and clinics, and all schools, colleges, and universities. Map | Profile c. Earthquake Scenarios The project also constructed the rupture geometries for these events, selected a range of ground motion models, and assessed the potential impact—both in terms of damage and losses—that each event could inflict on the country if it were to occur today. The full scenario set consists of twelve events: seven historical events from 1664-1918, chosen out of many in this period, supplemented by five hypothetical events. Download Files e. Liquefaction Hazard Assessment The section "Liquefaction susceptibility and hazard assessment" discusses the inclusion of regional liquefaction occurrence models in the project, which predict ground failure using existing mapped information and above-ground inferences of below-ground conditions. These models were used for the national scale liquefaction hazard assessment in the second phase of the project identifying the factors that contribute to liquefaction, the methods used for assessment, and the potential damage and losses that can result from liquefaction. Download Files Anchor 1 Anchor 5 a. Website for OpenQuake online training The OpenQuake online training was designed for different types of audiences with diverse backgrounds and expertise. Through this platform, participants interact with GEM scientific and technical teams to learn the main concepts of earthquake risk assessment, along with the basic features of the engine. [English ] Improving global capacity for seismic hazard and risk This part of the program was designed to improve the understanding and awareness of earthquake hazard and risk, and to help bridge the gap between the information produced in detailed hazard and risk assessment studies and its communication to a wide variety of stakeholders (which range from local experts with the remit to assess seismic risk to decision-makers responsible for the implementation of risk reduction measures). b. Onsite Training Workshop One-day workshop designed to improve the understanding and awareness of earthquake hazard and risk and to help bridge the gap between the information produced in the project and its communication to a wide variety of stakeholders. The session allowed participants to explore and prepare the required input files for earthquake scenarios in the OpenQuake engine. OQ Engine Video Tutorials | English | Example Material Anchor 4 f. Technical Panel Session (Scenarios and Risk) #4 This presentation details data collection and processing methods for seismic hazards, exposure, and vulnerability. It presents preliminary results on potential earthquake impacts like building collapse and economic loss using an 1885 event as an example. The presentation also mentions probabilistic risk assessment and division-level risk maps, alongside details about 12 "scenario ruptures" based on historical and potential earthquake events. View Presentation 1. Scenario earthquakes for Bangladesh hazard and risk analysis by Richard Styron This presentation explores the concept of scenario earthquakes and their role in analysing earthquake hazards and risks in Bangladesh. Richard Styron will discuss the specific scenarios considered for Bangladesh, providing insights for understanding potential earthquake impacts. Watch 2. PSHA Model for Indian sub-continent: tailored version of Nath and Thingbaijam (2012) by Kendra Johnson Kendra Johnson will present a tailored version of the PSHA (Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Assessment) model developed by Nath and Thingbaijam (2012) for the Indian subcontinent. This presentation will explain how this model has been adapted to provide a more accurate assessment of earthquake hazards specific to Bangladesh. Watch 3. Earthquake-induced liquefaction hazard assessment: scenario and probabilistic analysis by Lana Todorovic This presentation by Lana Todorovic focuses on earthquake-induced liquefaction, a major concern in Bangladesh due to its river delta geography. Lana will discuss both scenario-based and probabilistic approaches to assessing liquefaction hazard, providing valuable information for mitigating this specific earthquake risk. Watch a. GEM presentation to the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief (MoDMR), Bangladesh This is an introductory presentation on Bangladesh's earthquake risk assessment project that outlines past efforts, emphasises the need for a nationwide evaluation, and introduces the GEM Foundation's methodology. It highlights completed division-level risk maps and ongoing project activities like data collection, vulnerability assessment, and stakeholder engagement. Additionally, five other presentations below will address different aspects of the project in Bangladesh. View Presentation Videos - Ruptures, PSHA and Liquefaction The Global Earthquake Model (GEM) Foundation presents insights into the Bangladesh earthquake risk assessment project. These presentations will explore scenario earthquakes, a customized seismic hazard model, and the assessment of earthquake-induced liquefaction hazards. c. Technical Panel Session (PSHA) #2 This presentation is about the tailored version of the PSHA (Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Assessment) model for the Indian sub-continent, which is based on the original model developed by Nath and Thingbaijam in 2012. The presentation discusses the main areas identified for improvement in the model, the changes that were introduced, and the impact of these changes on the hazard results. View Presentation b. Technical Panel Session #1 This presentation discusses the methodology used to collect and process data related to earthquake risk components such as hazard, exposure, and vulnerability. It also mentions the project activities and the formation of a technical panel for consultation and validation. View Presentation e. Technical Panel Session #3 This presentation focuses on exposure and physical and social vulnerability, as components of seismic risk. It discusses the details of exposure models, seismic vulnerability analysis, and social vulnerability. The presentation also mentions the use of the Global Earthquake Model (GEM) and the INFORM Index in assessing and understanding the seismic risk in Bangladesh. View Presentation g. Technical Panel Session (Liquefaction) #4 This presentation focuses on factors such as soil liquefaction, susceptibility to ground failure, population density, urbanisation, and the country's river delta geography. It discusses various methodologies and models used to assess liquefaction hazard and suggests the use of geospatial methodologies for identifying areas with a higher likelihood of occurrence. View Presentation Speech by Domenico Scalpelli (WFP Representative) on the presentation of the Earthquake Risk Assessment Results The speech was delivered on March 6, 2024 at Six Season Hotel, Hall Room, Bunka, Bangladesh (10:00 am to 12:30 pm). "While Bangladesh has been fortunate to avoid a significant earthquake in the past century, historical data suggests earthquakes are a threat. This analysis, considering hazard, exposure, and vulnerability, provides a foundation for evidence-based decision-making to guide preventive measures, enhance preparedness, and fortify our ability to respond." Read more | UNDRR Bangladesh article d. Technical Panel Session (Scenario Ruptures) #2 This presentation is about the hazard analysis of earthquakes in Bangladesh, including an overview of the fault systems, historical ruptures, and potential ruptures. It also mentions the ground motion models used for the analysis. View Presentation h. Final UNDRR-GEM Bangladesh - MoDMR Presentation This presentation summarises the findings of a sub-national earthquake hazard and risk assessment for Bangladesh, conducted by the Global Earthquake Model (GEM) Foundation in collaboration with MoDMR, UNDRR and UNRCO. It details the development of a comprehensive earthquake risk model for Bangladesh at the district and sub-district levels. The presentation covers the methodologies employed, including assessments of seismic hazard, exposure, and vulnerability. Stakeholder engagement and the final earthquake risk model for Bangladesh are also presented. View Presentation Communicating and raising earthquake risk awareness The activities in this component focused on raising the awareness of the public on earthquake hazard and risk by training a diverse group of disaster risk reduction (DRR) professionals together with personnel in charge of communicating risk to the public, and by conducting community-based workshops in selected areas of the pilot cities by those who were trained by the project. Anchor3 BUSINESS NEWS March 6 presentation Humanitarian Organisations 1/2 BUSINESS NEWS Images from online meetings: September to December 2023 1/1 BUSINESS NEWS March 4 presentation 1/1 BUSINESS NEWS March 3 meeting with MoDRM 1/2 BUSINESS NEWS March 5 OpenQuake Training 1/4 Publications Interim Substantive Reports The documents below are interim substantive reports on the project "Earthquake Vulnerability and Systemic Risk Assessment in Bangladesh". The main objective of the project is to develop a detailed earthquake risk model for Bangladesh at the zila and upazila levels. They describe the development of an open-source probabilistic seismic risk model for Bangladesh and provide key insights to decision-makers and stakeholders in the disaster risk mitigation community. c. Final Report This report details the findings of a sub-national earthquake hazard and risk assessment for Bangladesh, undertaken by the Global Earthquake Model (GEM) Foundation. The project fulfills a specific request from the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief (MoDMR) to the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and the UN Resident Coordinator's Office (UNRCO). The project aimed to develop a comprehensive earthquake risk model for Bangladesh at the district and subdistrict levels. This report details the activities undertaken, including needs assessment, technical consultations, hazard and exposure mapping, vulnerability assessment, risk analysis, stakeholder engagement, and final model dissemination. This assessment provides Bangladesh with crucial data to guide earthquake risk reduction efforts nationwide. Download the Report a. First Interim Substantive Report This report highlights the need for a seismic risk model in the country and discusses the gaps and needs assessment. The report also explains the technical approach and methodology for developing the risk model, including seismic hazard modeling, liquefaction susceptibility and hazard assessment, exposure modeling, and seismic fragility and vulnerability modeling. The seismic risk assessment process is described, along with the formation of a technical panel and stakeholder engagement. Download the Report b. Second Interim Substantive Report This report provides updates on various aspects of the project, including the development of earthquake scenarios, liquefaction susceptibility and hazard assessment, exposure modeling, and social vulnerability modeling. The report mentions that the project has engaged a technical panel comprising key experts and stakeholders, and their feedback and suggestions are being incorporated into the project. The report also includes information on the distribution of hospitals, clinics, schools, and colleges in Bangladesh. Download the Report

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