On the Seismic Vulnerability of Pernik Region (West Bulgaria)

On May 22, 2012 the seismically quiet Pernik area produced the strongest Bulgarian earthquake for the latest 80 years with Mw=5.6 and maximum observed intensity of VIII degree EMS. Thus the real seismic impact on structures has to be assessed and vulnerability of the local building stock has to be revised accounting for the physical characteristics of this event, the actual response of affected structures and their post-earthquake condition. For this purpose data from the local digital SGM Network of Sofia, that recorded this earthquake, is processed and used to evaluate the characteristics, relevant to aseismic design of structures. Damages induced to buildings in Pernik area by the main event and the aftershocks are investigated on site. They are illustrated and the vulnerability aspects are discussed. Finally implication about the reasons for current vulnerability of damaged buildings in Pernik area is provided.