Bibliographic details:
Yagoub, M. M. (2015). Spatio-temporal and hazard mapping of Earthquake in UAE (1984–2012): Remote sensing and GIS application. Geoenvironmental Disasters, 2(1), 13.
Abstract:
This study investigates the spatio-temporal distribution of earthquake events taking place in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and its effect on the population. In this study seven parameters are used for generation of a hazard map; this includes geology, soil, slope, land use, historical earthquake events, fault line, and roads. GIS weighted overlay analysis is used to demarcate the earthquake risk zones.
Analyzing data from 1984 to 2012 showed that during the period of 28 years there were frequent earthquakes that occurred with intensity ranges from mild to moderate with the maximum magnitude of 5.1. Spatially, earthquake events were found clustered in the Emirate of Fujairah in the Eastern part of UAE (Oman Thrust). Even the magnitude of the earthquakes is low, the frequency of being increased in the past few years coupled with urban development are point of concern and it becomes necessary to develop preventive measures such as hazard maps for the area.
The resulting map prepared is expected to increase the awareness for disaster prevention at the time of need and will help in the systematic and proper development of land use for community planning and mitigation policy.