SEISMIC RISK ASSESSMENT OF URBAN AREAS USING ADVANCED MODELING APPROACHES

Abstract

Urban settlements located in seismic zones are increasingly vulnerable to devastating earthquakes, which pose significant threats to human life, infrastructure, and economic stability. Modern urbanization, combined with inadequate building practices and outdated infrastructure, amplifies the potential impacts of seismic hazards. This study presents a comprehensive overview of contemporary approaches to seismic risk assessment, including probabilistic modelling, vulnerability indexing, and scenario-based simulation using GIS and Big Data platforms. A critical comparison between international and national methodologies is provided, emphasizing practical and normative aspects. Uzbekistan serves as a case study to examine regional applications of seismic zoning, structural vulnerability assessment, and the use of simulation technologies for disaster mitigation. The paper concludes by discussing policy implications and the need for unified international standards that reflect both probabilistic uncertainty and geospatial variability in risk.