Two cities of the same population experience identical earthquakes One city is devastated the other is slightly damaged What scenarios could explain why one city is more heavily damaged?

Answer 1

The destruction can vary based on two inherent factors:

-- the included landforms and water areas (notably tsunamis, landslides)

-- the soils on which the city is constructed (degree of liquefaction)

The human habitation destruction and casualty levels can also vary based on:

-- the average age of structures

-- the application of earthquake codes to structures, bridges, and roadways

-- the use of electricity as compared to natural gas

-- the level at which fire and emergency services are funded and staffed

-- availability of medical care and medical transportation

-- the emergency preparations carried out by the populace

More damage will occur in : An older city in a coastal region built on reclaimed land, with many natural gas lines; narrow streets; wooden and masonry buildings; less restrictive building and fire codes; lack of earthquake monitoring and preparedness.

Less damage will occur in: A newer city, inland from the coast, on firm bedrock away from fault lines, with steel and concrete and reinforced buildings, wider streets, stringent fire codes, and high levels of emergency planning.