Postseismic groundwater quality investigation in aquifers following earthquake-induced demolition wastes: Hatay (Türkiye) case study

The February 6, 2023 seismic sequence that hit, the Antakya district of Hatay (Türkiye), killed more than 50,000 people and caused extensive structural damages, resulting in the collapse of 80% of the building stock that generated over 100 million tons of debris. Understanding the impact of seismic events on water resources is highly important for ensuring human and environmental health. Herewith, a study was carried out over the Hatay area to assess the post-earthquake sustainable usability of groundwater for drinking, domestic, and irrigation purposes. 17 water points were investigated in September 2023, encompassing alluvial deposits with relatively high hydraulic conductivity as well as Miocene and Upper Cretaceous aged karstic limestone aquifers. Notably, six out of the 17 water points were crucial sources for supplying post-seismic drinking water to Hatay City. The study aimed to evaluate major ion chemistry, heavy metals, endocrine disruptors, Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs), Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs), Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), and other possible pollutants that potentially infiltrated into the groundwaters after seismic events. Preliminary results indicated that none of the samples exceeds the allowable limits for endocrine disruptors, PAHs, PCBs, or VOCs, posing immediate threats. However, some of the wells and springs exploited for drinking purposes show concentrations higher than the international drinking water quality standards in terms of heavy metals, particularly iron and aluminum. These findings highlight the necessity for continuous water quality monitoring and the implementation of appropriate measures to ensure the sustainable use of groundwater for drinking purposes after any earthquake. This study emphasizes the critical importance of proactive management strategies to mitigate the impact of seismic events on groundwater quality and human-environmental health in earthquake-prone regions like Hatay, Türkiye.