An overview approach to seismic awareness for a “quiescent” region

The Denver Region in Colorado, USA, is used as an example of the seismic vulnerability of a region that is not generally considered seismically active. The HAZUS (Hazards United States) natural hazard vulnerability program of United States and an integral geographical information system are used to create the regional distribution of Denver’s potential consequences of an earthquake. Two realistic scenario earthquakes are employed based on a detailed study of seismic activity in the region. Outcomes include casualties, displaced households, building damage by construction material type, hospital functionality, highway bridge functionality, and infrastructure recovery rates. Demographic information includes the use of public transportation, elderly population, and vulnerability based on education, income, and race. Additionally, the type and frequency of communication among key planning agencies and other organizations in the region are investigated through the use of personal interviews as well as a survey to determine the degree to which these agencies consider seismic risk in their communication and coordination planning. Copyright Springer Science+Business Media Dordrecht 2013