Morphoneotectonic photointerpretation support for seismic hazard

For mapping of the regional seismic hazard it is necessary to define the seismotectonic model from the morphoneotectonic studies. Such studies are possible using aerial photographs. The methodology applied for the nuclear power sites in Italy is presented. The task is to assess the neotectonic activity testified by the geomorphological evidences during the Quaternary. Two different cases, to explain the methodology to evaluate the seismic hazard, are presented. In the first case (Southern "Giudicarie System") the link between the neotectonic structures and some geomorphological elements inferred by photointerpretation is presented. Its geomorphological elements and lineaments are directly related to neotectonic movements. In the second case (Friuli plain), there is not a direct link between the morphoneotectonic features and seismicity. The seismic activity is connected to the root of the overthrust belt buried in the Friuli plain the front of which are represented by the isolated reliefs in the alluvial plain. These reliefs are studied using aerial photographs and are completely defined. © 1995.