An approach to evaluate vulnerability of port infrastructure system under typhoon-induced disruptions

Ports, serving as pivotal nodes in maritime supply chain, are increasingly vulnerable to external disruptions, particularly from risks presented by typhoons. The impact of typhoon is severe and unprecedented in this domain. Therefore, measuring the vulnerability of port infrastructure systems against such disruptions is essential for maintaining operational continuity and ensuring system safety. While existing studies have employed either Inoperability Input-Output Models (IIM) or Dynamic Inoperability Input-Output Model (DIIM) independently, this study proposes an integrated methodological framework combining the IIM for vulnerability assessment and DIIM to capture the temporal dynamics of system performance under typhoon-induced disruption. Specifically, our methodological contributions include the typhoon-specific vulnerability index capturing port infrastructure couplings and the scenario-based validation of simulated inoperability with the Shanghai Port case study. The findings reveal the critical components of crane-related infrastructures exhibit greater vulnerability to typhoon disruptions. In the analysis of specific disruptions and their impact on port operations, the maximin inoperability and the corresponding time to reach the maximin inoperability was calculated, providing actionable insights for disruption-preparedness in port authority. The comprehensive approach and empirical results from this study provide recommendations and actionable details for practitioners and decision-makers aiming to enhance resilience in maritime industry under extreme weather conditions.