Optimization of Temporary Shelter Locations Using Spatial Accessibility Analysis for Earthquake Response
Earthquakes represent a significant threat to urban areas, where territorial vulnerability increases the risk to the population. The objective of this study was to optimize the location of temporary shelters through a spatial accessibility analysis to strengthen earthquake response. A quantitative, applied, non-experimental study was conducted using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), and multicriteria analysis. The model integrated variables related to seismic hazard, topography, geology, soil type, road accessibility, and population distribution to identify optimal shelter locations and evacuation routes. The results showed a predominance of areas with high and very high hazard levels, allowing the proposal of thirteen strategically distributed shelters. It is concluded that the integration of GIS and AHP constitutes an effective tool to support territorial planning and strengthen seismic risk management.