Earthquake Engineering Research Institute
Learning From Earthquakes

Summary of Impacts to Lifelines and Utilities from the August 24, 2016 Amatrice, Italy Earthquake

February 24, 2018

Virtual Earthquake Reconnaissance Team (VERT) Summary by Nicole Paul and Brian Austin.

Regional Roads (e.g. Highways)

Status: Disrupted

Several roads that facilitate access into Amatrice have been blocked or damaged from the earthquake. Of particular concern is damage to bridges that are the only efficient means of accessing the city [Al Jazeera]. Aftershocks increased damage to roads and bridges. Primary passageways into the city have been entirely blocked and alternative routes require passage over an also-damaged bridge. There are reports of massive congestion in and out of the city that inhibits movement of emergency vehicles [ABC27]. Shortly after the earthquake, the mayor indicated a need for heavy equipment to help clear the rubble-clogged streets.

Electric Power

Status: Disrupted

Power outages have affected nearly 6,000 end-users as well as services, especially in the Lazio region. Hydroelectric power plants in the area are to be inspected [Interfax Energy].

Gas

Status: Leaks Reported

Gas leaks directly after the earthquake were reported, inhibiting rescue efforts. [Financial Express]

Potable Water

Status: Disrupted

Mayor of Amatrice has banned personal consumption or use of the town’s water. Reports indicate dangerous levels of bacteria found at points in the town’s water supply, as of September 5th [The Local Italy].

Auxilary Water (for firefighting)

Status: No Reports

Wastewater

Status: No Reports

City streets

Status: Disrupted

Streets within the city are significantly impeded due to debris and rubble caused by the earthquake. The main street throughout Amatrice has been devastated [Time]. Roads are very narrow in the city, making movement throughout the city especially vulnerable to debris [Al Jazeera].

 

 

citystreets1

citystreets2
Figure 1. Source: @danielemargutti Figure 2. Source: Gregorio Borgia/AP
   
   

Telecommunications

Status: Disrupted

Telecommunications are limited due to power shortages and reduced capability within the region [660 News]. However, some service providers announced announced free service to the region [Daily Record].

Public Transit

Status: N/A

Port

Status: N/A

Airport

Status: N/A

Fuel

Status: No Reports

Internet

Status: Disrupted

Rescue organizations have requested that locals remove Wi-Fi passwords to ease communications for rescue and recovery operations [IB Times]. Disaster Tech Lab (DTL) has been working to install wireless network services in areas where connectivity has been lost, providing independent solar and wind energy to power their networks [VOA News].