Preliminary Report of the National Team Tasked with Conducting an Early Study to Collect Valuable Data on Seismic Activity in Northwest Salamiyah

 Damascus University formed a national team composed of staff from the Higher Institute for Seismic Research and Studies at the university and the Atomic Energy Commission, with technical and logistical support from the Aga Khan Foundation. The aim is to conduct an early study to collect valuable data on the earthquake that occurred in northwest Salamiyah.

The head of the national team from Damascus University, Dean of the Higher Institute for Seismic Research and Studies, Dr. Hala Hassan, confirmed that in an immediate response to the series of earthquakes that began on August 12, 2024, in the northwest Salamiyah area, the President of Damascus University, Dr. Mohammad Osama Al-Jabban, made directions for an early study to collect valuable data on seismic activity, in cooperation with a national team from specialized scientific institutions, the Atomic Energy Commission, and the Aga Khan Foundation.

Dr. Hassan explained that the team's objectives focused on conducting field investigations to identify affected areas, investigating the location of earthquake's epicentre, and monitoring seismic activity in the region. The team’s efforts resulted in several findings, including that the earthquake was of moderate intensity and did not have significant destructive power. Field studies showed that the largest earthquake that occurred represents the maximum possible intensity of earthquakes in the region, indicating no significant seismic risk in the near term.

Dr. Hassan also stated that the national team recommended several measures for municipalities and civil institutions, including awareness activities for residents and school students, providing assistance in repairing rural buildings, preparing relief sites in safe areas, using appropriate building materials (such as standard epoxy) in seismic areas, and monitoring cracks in walls and conducting necessary repairs.