Post-earthquake mission in Durres, Albania, from Science to practice

Abstract

Following the M=6.4 earthquake that hit Durres in Albania on 26.11.2019, at the request of the Government of the Republic of Albania to the Government of R.N. Macedonia, in coordination with the deputy Prime Minister of the Government of R. N. Macedonia and the Director of the Bureau for Forensic Expertise of the R. N. Macedonia as operational coordinator, teams of experts were established for assistance and support to the local teams in rapid assessment on the structural safety of damaged buildings in the most affected areas. The Institute of Earthquake Engineering and Engineering Seismology -IZIIS (Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje) was leading the Macedonian mission with four teams composed of 11 experts. Most of the structures that were the subject of inspection were residential, mainly constructed as reinforced concrete structure and flat-slab systems prior the year 2000. Most of these structures suffered major nonstructural damage with negligible structural damages and extensive repairable structural damages. The cause of incurred damages was inconsistent application of recent knowledge in design, construction, and control of earthquake resistant structures. In order to define corresponding technical solutions for repair and strengthening, especially for the vital structures, it is necessary to take additional measures as detailed engineering inspection and science-based analysis.

A framework for harmonized cross-border seismic risk assessment

“…Similarly, Thenhaus et al (2015) developed and implemented a methodology for harmonizing the national seismic hazard models in Canada and the United States, and emphasized the importance of consistent hazard assessment in cross-border regions for effective risk management. Additionally, initiatives such as the CRISIS project, as discussed by Di Meo et al (2023) and Sheshov et al (2023), contributed to the development of cross-border platforms for risk assessment and management, enhancing collaboration and information sharing between neighbouring countries. Furthermore, studies by Cavaleri et al (2017) and Wieland et al (2015) focused on vulnerability and exposure modelling in cross-border urban areas, respectively, highlighting the importance of customized approaches and comprehensive data collection for accurate risk assessment and mitigation strategies.…”