۱- Introduction

۲- The audiences of earthquake emergency maps

۳- Earthquake emergency maps for different audiences

۴- Mapping earthquake emergency maps

۵- Case study and discussion

۶- Conclusions

References

Abstract

Emergency response and rescue is an important way to mitigate the loss caused by earthquakes. Various maps containing information about earthquakes provide effective guidance and references for individuals undertaking such action. However, the production of earthquake emergency maps aimed at the “right” user in an effective manner is challenging. In this study, we focus on two questions: (1) Who are the users of earthquake emergency maps and what information do these individuals need? (2) How can the maps be produced quickly and efficiently according to the requirements of different users? To answer the first question, we classify the users into four categories under the guidance of audience theory: earthquake emergency decision-makers, auxiliary decision-making technicians, emergency rescue workers, and the public. The map contents are also described according to the requirements of different audiences. We depict the methods used for representation in such earthquake emergency maps for different audiences, which places a foundation for answering the second question. Following that, a template-matching mapping method is proposed for the rapid production of emergency maps, including two phases: before the earthquake templates of emergency maps for different audiences are prepared; after an earthquake, the template is updated with information from seismic models, so that the emergency maps are automatically plotted. Finally, a case study is provided to verify the mapping method. We conclude that the application of audience theory and the related template-matching method for map production not only answers the two questions but also will benefit the emergency mapping of other disasters.

Introduction

Earthquakes are natural disasters that usually lead to numerous deaths and injuries, and extensive economic loss [1]. China lies between the circum-Pacific seismic belt and the Eurasian seismic zone and has suffered from some of the most severe earthquake disasters in the world [2]. For example, the Wenchuan earthquake in 2008 caused 69,227 deaths, 374,643 injuries, 17,923 missing people, and more than 10,000 square kilometers of severe damage [3]. A method for the accurate short- and medium-period prediction of earthquakes has not yet been discovered. Earthquake emergency response and rescue is an important means by which mitigation of such disasters can take place after an earthquake, and the effectiveness of this system has often been verified [4]. After the occurrence of an earthquake, maps that include information pertaining to an earthquake and the associated possible disaster can provide a foundation for effective emergency search and rescue, and therefore play an important role in the emergency response and rescue process. These maps are therefore essential thematic maps that display the various types of information needed for earthquake emergency command and rescue. Earthquake emergency maps are important to the leaders of rescue operations and the staff members of governments. These individuals can intuitively understand the information regarding an earthquake disaster, and carry out rescue operations in a timely manner [5]. The three days following an earthquake are known as the “golden period of emergency rescue”; after this time the number of dead sharply increases [6,7]. In China, the government needs approximately 24 h to collect and send emergency rescue materials to a disaster area, which is usually located in the mountain regions of Southwest China. This means that the governmental lead needs to make rescue decisions within half a day following an earthquake. In such a situation, emergency maps that include useful information are crucial in aiding such decision-makers. However, the means by which useful maps in earthquake emergencies can be produced in an effective manner is challenging. Two questions concerning earthquake emergency mapping are discussed in this paper. Many people are involved in emergency response and rescue.