journal article·2023-08-01Open access

Spatial Vulnerability Assessment of Critical Infrastructure Based on Fire Risk through GIS Systems—Case Study: Historic City Center of Guimarães, Portugal

Oscar Urbina, Hélder S. Sousa, Alexander Fekete, José Campos Matos, Elisabete Teixeira

Applied Sciences· Volume 13· Issue 15

Abstract

One of the most important factors when assessing the resilience of critical infrastructure is its vulnerability to extreme events. This study focuses on developing correlation maps that define the vulnerability to fire risk of critical infrastructure and its zone of influence. Using an index approach, a vulnerability assessment is challenging due to the fact that observing and measuring certain vulnerability aspects is not too easy. Furthermore, analyzing the unique vulnerabilities of individual elements becomes intricate, given their interdependencies and correlations. Leveraging GIS mapping techniques, we investigate the impacts of infrastructure disruption on neighboring elements and the urban fabric. The methodology enables multiple levels of assessment, facilitating the identification of vulnerable elements and optimizing decision-making processes before and after extreme events. Our findings highlight the significance of prioritizing emergency planning, enhancing accessibility, implementing preventive measures, and adopting a proactive emergency response approach. In conclusion, these measures contribute to mitigating vulnerability and safeguarding critical infrastructure and surrounding communities from extreme events.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: Infrastructure Resilience and Vulnerability Analysis · Disaster Management and Resilience · Flood Risk Assessment and Management

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Department of Civil Engineering, ISISE, ARISE, University of Minho, 4800-058 Guimarães, Portugal

Institute for Rescue Engineering and Hazard Prevention, Faculty of Plant, Energy and Machine Systems, TH Koln–University of Applied Sciences, 50968 Cologne, Germany

Funding

Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) · FCT/MCTES · Associate Laboratory Advanced Production and Intelligent Systems ARISE

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