Early observations from the magnitude Mw 7.0 January 12, 2010 Haiti earthquake

A. S. Elnashai, A. Lewis

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

The paper reports early observations from the Mw 7.0 Haiti earthquake of January 12th, 2010. After reviewing the seismo-tectonic setting, the earthquake parameters are presented. This is followed by assessments of selected engineered and non-engineered buildings, to highlight some of the observed design and construction shortcomings. It is concluded that the intensity of shaking is inconsistent with the exceptionallyhigh level of damage sustained by all types of construction. The paper concludes with recommendations for the development of visually-based guidance for construction of buildings that identifies and avoids common pitfalls and recommends desirable features for reducing the impact of future natural disasters.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationAdvances and Trends in Structural Engineering, Mechanics and Computation - Proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Structural Engineering, Mechanics and Computation, SEMC 2010
EditorsAlphose Zingoni
PublisherCRC Press/Balkema
Pages141-146
Number of pages6
ISBN (Print)9780415584722
StatePublished - Jan 1 2010
Event4th International Conference on Structural Engineering, Mechanics and Computation, SEMC 2010 - Cape Town, South Africa
Duration: Sep 6 2010Sep 8 2010

Publication series

NameAdvances and Trends in Structural Engineering, Mechanics and Computation - Proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Structural Engineering, Mechanics and Computation, SEMC 2010

Other

Other4th International Conference on Structural Engineering, Mechanics and Computation, SEMC 2010
Country/TerritorySouth Africa
CityCape Town
Period9/6/109/8/10

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering

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