Earthquake hazard zoning using Geographical Information System (Case Study: Tabriz metropolis)

Iran is one of the most vulnerable countries in the field of natural disasters, especially earthquakes. Being placed on the Alpine - Himalayan orogeny belt and the presence of active geologic and plateau have all made the earthquake as a potential danger. Meanwhile, since most of Iran's population live in metropolitan areas, this fact has raised the need for safer urban spaces. One of the most important urban spaces in this regard is Tabriz. The location of this city on the active faults of the region, especially the Tabriz fault, calls for the adoption of urban safety approaches. This article in terms of target is applied and the method is a descriptive - analytical one. To conduct this research, the hierarchy analysis process and Arc GIS software have been used. In this regard, 12 criteria were identified and processed in both natural and human sections and an earthquake risk map was prepared. In this regard, 12 criteria were processed in two distinct natural and human sections and an earthquake risk map was prepared. The results showed that the central, west, and southwestern regions with an area of 13969.6 hectares (more than the half city's area), 59.3 percent of the city, are in high risk of seismic zone and are quite susceptible to earthquakes. Only the northern parts of the city are secured from the earthquake; but considering the fact that the depth and domain of the earthquake are not limited to a specific area, the earthquake in the northern city may occur too. Therefore, the commitment to construction regulations, location of urban development, living spaces, and activities in this metropolis are all important factors.