A cluster-based decision support system for estimating earthquake damage and casualties

This paper describes a Decision Support System for Disaster Management (DSS‐DM) to aid operational and strategic planning and policymaking for disaster mitigation and preparedness in a less‐developed infrastructural context. Such contexts require a more flexible and robust system for fast prediction of damage and losses. The proposed system is specifically designed for earthquake scenarios, estimating the extent of human losses and injuries, as well as the need for temporary shelters. The DSS‐DM uses a scenario approach to calculate the aforementioned parameters at the district and sub‐district level at different earthquake intensities. The following system modules have been created: clusters (buildings) with respect to use; buildings with respect to construction typology; and estimations of damage to clusters, human losses and injuries, and the need for shelters. The paper not only examines the components of the DSS‐DM, but also looks at its application in Besiktas municipality in the city of Istanbul, Turkey.