Post-Disaster Structure Siting in Rural Guatemala following the 4 February Earthquake

Abstract

The. Guatemalan earthquake of 4 February 1976 and its associated aftershocks, especially that qf 6 February , caused extensive damage in a large part of the Central Highlands of Guatemala. Nearly all structures in many communities and throughout the countryside were damaged or destroyed, either by shaking of the ground during the. earthquake or by landslides resulting from the earthquake. Thousands of landslides dammed rivers and streams, blocked roads, and rendered many building sites unsuitable for reconstruction. Recommendations for the Central Highlands area studied include the following. In 25 communities visited, at least fifteen homes and two schools should be relocated. Two of the four major landslides that dam rivers should be monitered for the next 7 months. Five roads should be partially or completely reconstructed. Flood control measures are necessary in Antigua and should be initiated as soon as is possible. These measures will insure a reduction in fatalities during ensuing earthquakes and floods.