GIS in Seismic Evaluation of Essential Facilities

Abstract: This research used PC ARC/INFO, a geographic information system (GIS), to assess the potential seismic vulnerability of essential facilities in Memphis and Shelby County, Tennessee. The GIS is a powerful tool for spatial operations. It offers a link between spatial data in a computerized map form and related nonspatial attribute files. It has the ability to overlay, compare, and analyze several maps in digital form with speed and efficiency. In order to assess the potential vulnerability of essential facilities, evaluation criteria with rational weighting (including soil type, liquefaction potential, slope, foundation, structural conditions, and important elements of bridges such as detour length and average daily traffic) were identified. This research proved that GIS is a reliable and efficient tool for vulnerability assessment of essential facilities in an earthquake‐prone area. The GIS is convenient and productive in data management. It is easy to produce special‐purpose maps at selected scale and tabular analysis reports in desired format. Results of the study are important for future facility maintenance and improvement and earthquake preparedness /response planning. © 1994 Microcomputers in Civil Engineerin