This paper presents the results of numerical analyses of ground motion in the Red Zone sector of Amatrice hill, violently struck by the 2016-2017 Central Italy seismic sequence. The methodologies used in processing the data to define the numerical model are firstly described. The results obtained from the computational analyses are then presented and discussed by comparing them with experimental data set of weak motion recordings. Computational analyses were performed via both a 2D-numerical FEM model and a pseudothree-dimensional hybrid model (SiSeRHMap) which develops multispectral maps taking into account topographic effects. Starting from available geological data and geophysical measurements, an original and specific subsoil GIS model was developed and utilised to perform the computational analyses. The preliminary map for fundamental periods computed from the subsoil model is in good agreement with the experimental data. A restricted set of weak ground motions acquired from an accelerometric station located in a reference site was used as input for the numerical analyses, while the signals of the corresponding events recorded at the top of the hill were used as targets in the reliability evaluation analysis of the outputs. In the area of Amatrice hill, which is characterized by a complex geological and topographical context, the reliability analysis shows a good performance of the hybrid model compared to the 2D-FEM model in the prediction of seismic response. Agreement generally was also good with regards to the experimental and computational results, both in relation to the amplitude and to the shape of the spectral amplification that change depending on the hill sector. Considering the predictive reliability of the models, a high amplification, due to topographic effects, was observed for the Red Zone by performing a back-simulation of the 24th August 2016 main shock. The analysis results highlight also that the maximum amplification factors, based on the definition of the Housner intensity, occur in the interval of periods 0-0.5 s covering the fundamental period range of the buildings in this area.

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Performing a reliable stability analysis of a landslide slope requires a good understanding of the internal geometries and an accurate characterisation of the geotechnical parameters of the identified strata. Geotechnical models are commonly based on geomorphological data combined with direct and intrusive geotechnical investigations. However, the existence of numerous empirical correlations between seismic parameters (e.g., S-wave velocity) and geotechnical parameters in the literature has made it possible to investigate areas that are difficult to reach with direct instrumentation. These correlations are often overlooked even though they enable a reduction in investigation costs and time. By means of geophysical tests, it is in fact possible to estimate the N-SPT value and derive the friction angle from results obtained from environmental seismic noise measurements. Despite the empirical character and a certain level of uncertainty derived from the estimation of geotechnical parameters, these are particularly useful in the preliminary stages of an emergency, when straight data are not available and on all those soils where other direct in situ tests are not reliable. These correlations were successfully applied to the Theilly landslide (Western Alps, Italy), where the geotechnical model was obtained by integrating the results of a multi-parameter geophysical survey (H/V seismic noise and ground-penetrating radar) with stratigraphic and geomorphological observations, digital terrain model and field survey data. The analysis of the triggering conditions of the landslide was conducted by means of hydrological–geotechnical modelling, evaluating the behaviour of the slope under different rainfall scenarios and considering (or not) the stabilisation interventions present on the slope. The results of the filtration analyses for all events showed a top-down saturation mechanism, which led to the formation of a saturated face with a maximum thickness of 5 m. Stability analyses conducted for the same events showed the development of a shallow landslide in the first few metres of saturated soil. The modelling results are compatible with the actual evolution of the phenomenon and allow us to understand the triggering mechanism, providing models to support future interventions.

The Po River is the major Italian watercourse. Over half its length is controlled with embankments as protection measures against heavy floodings. Recently, the Italian Government has funded a project for the evaluation of the seismic stability of about 90 km of embankments of the Po River. The project mainly aims at the seismic stability analyses of the river banks, with assessment of local site response and evaluation of the liquefaction potential. Hundreds of geotechnical investigations within the study area were performed and the water level variations in the embankment and subsoil were investigated using piezometers. This paper describes the methodology and the main results of the analyses. The safety of 43 significant sections in static and seismic conditions was investigated using limit equilibrium analyses. Dynamic effects in the seismic condition were considered using the pseudostatic method. Local seismic hazard and effects of site conditions on the ground motion are taken into account in the definition of the expected seismic action. Eventually, the analysis results are summarized in a static and seismic stability map of the investigated area, a useful tool for the local Authority in the prevention and mitigation.