Level 2: Real-Time Mapping Techniques

Creating an Interactive Map of Kyrgyzstan Earthquakes using ArcGIS Maps SDK for JavaScript, Google map API and Leaflet for JavaScript

Learning Objectives:

At the end of the lesson, learners should be able:

  • To study the data related to earthquakes in Kyrgyzstan and analyze the patterns using GIS tools.
  • To use the cluster analysis technique to visualize the data and identify the areas with a high frequency of earthquakes.
  • Add widgets and functionality to a map, such as a legend and a print button.

Image used for illustrative purpose only. Too-Ashuu Pass, Kyrgyzstan. Photo by Azamat E on Unsplash

Earthquakes in Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan, a country situated in Central Asia, is known for its unique geological features and natural resources. However, it is also a country that experiences frequent seismic activity due to its location on the intersection of several tectonic plates. In this lesson, we will provide an overview of earthquakes in Kyrgyzstan, discussing their causes, impacts, and mitigation measures.

Earthquakes in Kyrgyzstan are primarily caused by the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, which have been gradually moving towards each other for millions of years. As a result of this collision, the region experiences a lot of seismic activity, which can range from small tremors to devastating earthquakes. The most active fault line in Kyrgyzstan is the Talas-Fergana Fault, which runs from western Kyrgyzstan to eastern Uzbekistan (Kalmetyeva, Z., 2009).

Over the years, Kyrgyzstan has experienced several major earthquakes, the most devastating of which occurred in 1946. Known as the Ashgabat earthquake, it had a magnitude of 7.3 and caused widespread destruction in Kyrgyzstan and neighboring countries. The earthquake resulted in the deaths of thousands of people and caused significant damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and buildings (Grützner, C., 2019).

In addition to the Ashgabat earthquake, Kyrgyzstan has experienced several other significant earthquakes in recent years, including a 6.6 magnitude earthquake that struck near the capital city, Bishkek, in 2008. This earthquake resulted in the deaths of 75 people and caused widespread damage to buildings and infrastructure (Grützner, C., 2019).

The impacts of earthquakes in Kyrgyzstan can be severe, especially for the country’s vulnerable communities. The mountainous terrain and poor infrastructure make it difficult for emergency responders to reach affected areas quickly, which can delay relief efforts and exacerbate the effects of the earthquake. Additionally, many of the country’s buildings are not built to withstand earthquakes, which can result in significant damage and loss of life.

To mitigate the impacts of earthquakes in Kyrgyzstan, the government has implemented several measures. These include the establishment of early warning systems, the development of earthquake-resistant building codes, and the implementation of public awareness campaigns. However, the effectiveness of these measures is still being evaluated, and there is still much work to be done to ensure the country is prepared for future earthquakes (Picozzi, M.,2012).

In conclusion, earthquakes are a significant challenge for Kyrgyzstan, and the country must continue to take proactive measures to mitigate their impacts. By improving infrastructure, increasing public awareness, and implementing effective emergency response systems, Kyrgyzstan can minimize the damage caused by earthquakes and protect its citizens from harm.

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Data Collection:

The data for this lesson will be collected from the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The data will include information such as earthquake location, magnitude, depth, time, and date. Our primary data source will be the USGS, but we will also explore alternative sources, such as the European Union’s Emergency Management Service Copernicus mapping service.

AcrGIS Maps SDK for JavaScript

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Demo

Google Maps API

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Demo

Leaflet

Try it yourself
Demo

Comparison between JavaScript Mapping API:

ArcGIS Maps SDK for JavaScript API

Google Maps API

Leaflet

Scope:

The ArcGIS Maps SDK for JavaScript offers robust tools for clustering earthquake data, including advanced options like dynamic clustering and grid-based clustering. It also provides various visualization and labeling choices.

Scope:

The Google Maps API provides a marker clustering library for displaying earthquake data in clusters, supporting different clustering algorithms and customization of clustering markers.

Scope:

Leaflet has multiple plugins available for clustering and supports both marker and layer clustering for earthquake data visualization. It is a lightweight and flexible option that can be tailored for various use cases.

Limitations:

However, these clustering features are only accessible with the ArcGIS Server standard or advanced licenses, and may impact performance when working with large datasets due to their resource-intensive nature.

Limitations:

Nevertheless, the clustering library in Google Maps API has limitations, including limited styling options and the inability to implement custom algorithm-based clustering. Additionally, performance may be affected when clustering large datasets.

Limitations:

However, the clustering plugins in Leaflet may not have as many features as other mapping APIs, and some clustering functionality may require additional customization. Additionally, it may have slower performance with larger datasets.

In summary, clustering is a valuable tool for enhancing the visualization and analysis of large datasets in web mapping applications. Its benefits include improved performance, enhanced interpretability, and customization options. However, it also has its drawbacks, such as potential loss of detail, arbitrary grouping, and reliance on the chosen clustering algorithm. To achieve optimal outcomes, it is crucial to thoroughly weigh the advantages and disadvantages of clustering and carefully select the most suitable clustering algorithm for the specific dataset being analyzed.

Conclusion:

This lesson provided insights into earthquakes in Kyrgyzstan and how to use GeoJSON data and clustering to display and analyze earthquake events. We explored the ArcGIS Map SDK for JavaScript, Google Maps API, and Leaflet to show how to create maps with earthquake clusters using each API’s unique features and limitations. By the end of the lesson, students will have a foundational understanding of how to use these APIs for geo-data mapping and clustering while acknowledging the limitations and challenges of working with geo-data.

In conclusion, the study of earthquakes in Kyrgyzstan is essential to mitigate the risks and minimize the impact of earthquakes on society and infrastructure. By using GIS tools such as cluster analysis, the learners can visualize the data and identify the areas with a high frequency of earthquakes. This knowledge can be used to develop strategies to reduce the risk of earthquakes in Kyrgyzstan. The learners can benefit from this lesson by gaining practical skills in data analysis and visualization, and apply the knowledge to real-life scenarios. Overall, this lesson is an excellent opportunity for GIS students to develop their skills and make a positive impact on society.

Further Learning:

To further your understanding and skills in using ArcGIS JavaScript API, Google Maps API, and Leaflet, here are some resources you can use. By utilizing these resources, you can continue to enhance your skills and knowledge in web mapping using these powerful tools.

Documentation:
Community resources:

ArcGIS Maps SDK for JavaScript:

Google Maps API:

Leaflet

Tutorials and courses: ArcGIS Maps SDK for JavaScript:

Tutorials and courses: Google Maps API:

Tutorials and courses: Leaflet:

References: