Analysis of historical and present earthquakes at Vesuvius for seismic hazard evaluation

Abstract

Introduction At Vesuvius about 600,000 people live on the volcano and the risk associated to a large eruption is very high, but its complete evaluation includes also the potential damage due to earthquakes accompanying eruptions. Moreover low-moderate energy earthquakes are also observed in volcanic active areas during quiescent periods. Generally such events are shallow and produce high intensities in the epicentral area. Today at Vesuvius the high housing density and economic value exposed make the area of considerable importance for mitigating seismic risk. To evaluate the effects of the earthquakes at Vesuvius, data are required on the location, source mechanism and damage levels of historical earthquakes, in addition to understanding how Vesuvius works. A damage map of the maximum earthquake recorded is proposed.