Performance of Water Systems during the Maule M w 8.8 Earthquake of 27 February 2010

Abstract

The Maule M_w 8.8 earthquake of 27 February 2010 impacted a number of water and wastewater lifelines. Ground shaking and liquefaction heavily damaged the Essbio water and wastewater systems, particularly in Concepción. Ground shaking destroyed more than 70 elevated water tanks in rural water systems built by the national government. A fire water tank collapsed at the Santiago Airport. There was damage to canals. Despite more than 3,000 repairs to other types of water pipe, the high-density polyethylene pipe used in the Concepción water distribution system was undamaged.