The Role of Video Cameras and Emerging Technologies in Disaster Response to Increase Sustainability of Societies: Insights on the 2023 Türkiye–Syria Earthquake

Abstract

New technologies are being used to facilitate the recognition process during and after earthquakes. These advanced tools are essential to keep track of what is left from of the destruction suffered by the built stock. Among the new technologies are video recordings captured during seismic events, footage from drones, and satellite imagery acquired before and after the event. This review paper presents a series of examples collected from the 2023 Türkiye–Syria earthquakes to illustrate how these new technologies offer a unique and efficient way to capture, document, and transfer information among experts in seismology, earthquake engineering, and disaster management. Whenever possible, these examples are accompanied by simple qualitative explanations to enhance understanding. To demonstrate the potential of video cameras and drone imagery for quantitative analysis, in addition to the various simple examples provided, two case studies are provided—one on road blockages, and another on intensity assessment and wave attenuation as observed in video cameras. These technologies are critical and merit considerable focus, particularly video cameras, which have not received much attention recently, on helping to understand seismic wave passage and their impact on the built environment. Enhancing our use of video cameras in this context can significantly contribute to the sustainability and resilience of our society. With the rapid advancement of image analysis, we advocate for a collaborative platform for accessing and utilizing imagery materials, aiding current and future generations in analysing the causes of such tragedies.