Lessons learnt from the Wenchuan earthquake

摘要

Based on the recent observations made in China, the following conclusions can be drawn:rn1. Following a strong earthquake, the seismic hazard at dam sites have to be increased and the seismic design guidelines have to be reviewed and updated.rn2. In mountainous regions large rockfalls have to be expected, which hinder access to dams after an earthquake for many weeks and months, and rockfalls can cause substantial damage to surface powerhouses, gates, piers, and appurtenant structures.rn3. The earthquake hazard has many features which are site-specific, therefore a standard approach in which emphasis is only put on ground shaking is problematic.