The Capabilities of Earth Observation to Contribute along the Risk Cycle

Abstract

The complexity of earthquake events and their manifold effects uncovers a strong niche for interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary analyses. Remote sensing data and methods are nowadays widely deployed to contribute information along the risk cycle. In this chapter, we document these contributions and discuss limitations simultaneously by means of an in-depth literature survey and presentation of selected examples. These include hazard-centered analysis such as site characterization and quantification of surface deformations in preevent and postevent applications. Furthermore, preevent seismic vulnerability-centered assessments of the built and natural environment are presented, which build upon the capability of remote sensing to map elements at risk, area wide. Lastly, damage assessment for postevent applications is discussed and completed by demonstrating recovery monitoring capabilities.