Abstract

The assessment of damage scenarios and human and material losses is essential for seismic risk reduction, even in regions of low or moderate seismicity. A seismic risk evaluation is carried out in the residential district of Eixample in Valencia (Spain), a district with great historical and architectural value, with predominantly masonry buildings and where most of the modernist heritage of the city is located. Seismic vulnerability has been evaluated following the vulnerability index method [1] obtaining the seismic quality for the residential building stock taking into account the structural typology, maintenance level, age and geometry, and identifying the most vulnerable buildings. Damage probability matrices for deterministic and probabilistic scenarios have subsequently been determined considering a binomial or beta-equivalent probability distribution and, using a geographic information system, scenarios of damage, losses and costs maps have been produced for each earthquake intensity. Results confirm that vulnerability and seismic risk is significant and, therefore, a detailed study will enhance the structural earthquake performance of the buildings in the district, especially if they are protected, helping to reduce human and material losses, and safeguarding the citys heritage. On the other hand, the Special Plan against Earthquake Risk in the Valencia Region, approved in 2011, recommends the development of specific plans in several municipalities including the city of Valencia. This small study can serve as a starting point to be extended to the entire city.