Macroseismic study of the Potenza (Southern Italy), earthquake of May 5,1990

The aim of this paper is to define the macroseismic field of the 5 May [990 Potenza
earthquake, analysing about 3000 questionnaire forms together with the results of the direct inquiries
carried out in the field. The study evidences the seismic vulnerability of the Potenza district and of the
whole of southern Italy in general, due to the low resistance characteristics of the old constructions
and a lack of seismic prevention. Besides, geomorphological failure increases hazardous situations at
the earthquake's occurrence. This earthquake provided a good test for checking and improving the
ING macroseismic data collection procedures.

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