Entry Date:
June 15, 2012

MIT Japan 3/11 Initiative: Rapid Visual Site Analysis

Principal Investigator Shun Kanda

Co-investigators Richard Samuels , James Wescoat


This first study focuses on rapid methods of post-disaster site analysis and planning for a Memorial Community Center in the district of Utatsu, which was devastated by the tsunami.

Rapid visual methods have been developed to screen seismic architectural hazards (e.g., FEMA 154/155), but there is a need for additional development of rapid site reconnaissance, analysis, and planning methods. This goal was pursued in four stages:

(1) Site Analysis Methods
(2) Landscape Transect Analysis
(3) Site Analysis and Planning
(4) Community Center Schematic Design

On-site fieldwork was conducted to assist Miyagi University’s on-going relief work was conducted at Minami Sanriku in July 2011. Anticipating limited on-site resources, the bulk of workshop activities were centered in the Tané valley of Shiga Prefecture. The project is now engaged in refining these methods of rapid post-disaster site analysis and planning.