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In this study, loss estimation models were developed for reasonably accurate assessment of economic and human losses from seismic events in the Mediterranean region, based on damage assessment at an urban scale. Data were compiled from existing worldwide databases, and completed with earthquake information from regional studies. Economic data were converted to a single common currency unit (2015 USD value) and the wealth of the areas affected by 65 earthquakes of the region from 1900 to 2015 was assessed. Reduced-form models were used to determine economic and human losses, with earthquake magnitude and intensity as hazard-related variables, and gross domestic product of the affected area and the affected population as exposure-related variables. Damage to buildings was also used as a hazard-related variable to predict economic and human losses. Finally, site-specific regression models were proposed for economic and human losses due to earthquakes in the Mediterranean region, and more specifically, in Algeria. We show that by introducing the damage variable into the models, prediction error can be reduced, and that accuracy of loss model estimation is site dependent and requires regional data on earthquake losses to improve. A case study for Constantine, Algeria shows the improvements needed for increased accuracy.

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Seismic vulnerability of an urban environment is characterized by the ability of buildings and structures to support seismic events (physical vulnerability) and by the ability of people to behave in a consistent and rational face a major event (social vulnerability). Constantine is a city with moderate seismicity but the level of risk is high because of urban concentration and topography of the site. The seismic risk reduction therefore requires assessing the physical vulnerability of its buildings. It is proposed in this paper an analysis of a group of buildings for residential use located west of the city, consisting mainly of relatively high buildings. Following a survey of a portion of the housing stock of this city, a seismic survey method was applied based on "observations" post-seismic. Vulnerability indicators are statistically related to damage through a vulnerability index "IV" to establish curves of damage (or vulnerability). These are used to estimate the level of damage that is likely resulting in damage cards. The goal is to develop an initial database of some of the housing stock in the Constantine city (knowledge of earthquake hazards, construction defects ...) to be used in the estimation of seismic risk and verification of seismic safety of existing buildings. Keywords: Earthquake hazard; Seismic vulnerability; Constantine city; damage.