Another major focus of the SfP earthquake projects has been on regional seismology studies and earthquake risk assessments. For example, the SfP project: “Assessment and mitigation of seismic risk in Tashkent (Uzbekistan) and Bishkek (the Kyrgyz Republic)” involves collecting data on the seismologic and geologic characteristics of the region and developing seismic hazard maps and earthquake ground motion models for the cities. This information helps scientists to estimate the magnitude of future earthquakes, as well as the extent of the damage they may cause.
The seismic hazard maps help urban planners to decide what type of building can be built where. They are also used by insurance companies for risk assessments and by civil engineers to assess the mag- nitude of the earthquake-induced forces to help them design earthquake resistant structures. They help local authorities responsible for emergency management to design plans that can effectively prevent losses and save lives and property.