Statistical analysis of earthquake debris extent from wood-frame buildings and its use in road networks in Japan

Abstract

Debris scattering is one of the main causes of road/street blockage after earthquakes in dense urban areas. Therefore, the evaluation of debris scattering is crucial for decision makers and for producing an effective emergency response. In this vein, this article presents the following: (1) statistical data concerning the debris extent of collapsed buildings caused by the 2016 Mw 7.0 Kumamoto earthquake in Japan; (2) an investigation of the factors influencing the extent of debris; (3) probability functions for the debris extent; and (4) applications in the evaluation of road networks. To accomplish these tasks, LiDAR data and aerial photos acquired before and after the mainshock (16 April 2016) were used. This valuable dataset gives us the opportunity to accurately quantify the relationship between the debris extent and the geometrical properties of buildings.