Emergency Response & Recovery at Ports: Observations Following February 2023 Earthquakes in Türkiye

Abstract: In February 2023, waterfront structures along the coastline of the Gulf of Iskenderun experienced the impact from the magnitude 7.8 earthquake (Pazarcık Earthquake), the magnitude 7.6 event (Elbistan Earthquake), which followed the first within nine hours, and subsequent aftershocks with magnitudes of 5.0+. The American Society of Civil Engineers/Coasts, Oceans, Ports and Rivers Institute (ASCE/COPRI) deployed a team in May 2023 to observe the aftermath. The objective of the reconnaissance team was to observe, document, and learn about the earthquake effects on port systems and harbor structures, focusing on the operational and infrastructural impacts. A total of 15 public and private facilities, including coastal structures, ferry terminals, bulk handling terminals, and container terminals, were observed. Infrastructure included pile-supported piers and wharves, floating docks, gravity quaywalls and sheetpile quaywalls.
At the observed locations, the soil type predominantly fell under Class C classification. Generally, these locations encountered moderate to low levels of shaking, equivalent to 475-year design events. The observed pile-supported structures exhibited minor damage to structures or ancillary components, many of which were generally recoverable and repairable. Most observed gravity quay wall structures had moderate damage that impacted operations and required repair. Lateral spreading was evident beneath observed gravity quay walls, with at least one collapse. Sheetpile-supported quay walls were observed to have no damage. Coastal protection structures, such as breakwaters, were observed to have vertical settlement, likely due to liquefiable soil subsidence. The presence of post-event liquefaction in land reclamations was also evident, specifically in the Iskenderun Harbor District.
This paper is one of a three-paper series presenting the observations and findings from the field reconnaissance. It highlights the post-event emergency response and recovery efforts undertaken at the ports, based on field reconnaissance observations and interviews with facility operators and the port community. Several facilities encountered accessibility issues due to differential settlements. Even structures with minimal or no structural damage encountered operational setbacks and unexpected downtime due to damages to conveyor systems, critical firewater lines, and rail cranes. The availability of materials and equipment impacted repair and recovery times. Further, the ports played an important role in emergency response, community support, and local recovery. This paper summarizes important lessons learned about post-earthquake emergency response and recovery, with key takeaways for port authorities to consider in emergency planning.
The ground motions from the earthquakes and the geotechnical observations, as well as observed physical damage to infrastructure are discussed in the companion papers in this series.

How does this project / topic contribute to the advancement of the industry and profession?: This subject explores the significance of ports in the aftermath of earthquakes, encompassing strategies employed to effectively reinstate facility operations and the contribution of ports to community support and local recovery efforts. The paper provides key takeaways that are valuable to port authorities in emergency planning.

Does the project / topic implement new and innovative techniques, materials, technologies, and delivery methods?: The paper discusses strategies for facilitating recovery, including accessibility of equipment and materials post-event, including how those materials could be delivered to ports, local authorities, and emergency responders.

What was the most challenging aspect of your project / topic and how did you handle it to ensure success?: The team’s arrival in the region occurred several weeks post-event, precluding our firsthand observations of the immediate response. However, terminal staff were highly cooperative and provided detailed accounts of the actions undertaken during and after the earthquakes. Similar takeaways came from different port facilities, substantiating findings. Further, the timing of our visit allowed us to see the ‘before and after’ regarding physical implementation of recovery efforts, i.e. we observed one facility which had implemented gravel and pavers to restore access, while a similar site was still in a damaged condition.

Who is the target audience for this paper?: Port authorities, facility operators and owners, and marine engineers/consultants