Contribution of space imagery to vulnerability assessment of elements exposed to geological risks

Abstract : Vulnerability assessment of systems exposed to earthquakes has been increasily investigated in the last few years. Most efforts have been devoted particularly to vulnerability reduction of what is commonly called the physical vulnerability, given in terms of expected behaviour. This includes the damage inflicted on exposed elements. It is however premature to consider this work has led to a standardised method with respect to seismic risks. In addition, the generalization of this step to other natural phenomena is not often considered. Our work aims to define a common methodology for the assessment of the physical vulnerability of infrastructure elements subject to various natural risks. To do this, remote sensing techniques can provide useful information.