Evaluation of the seismic threat for an engineering project usually relies on probability seismic hazard analysis (PSHA), which allows to build hazard curves starting from models of seismic sources and ground motion prediction equations (GMPEs) appropriate for the region of interest. However, ordinary applications of PSHA do not account explicitly for near-source effects (such as directivity-induced velocity pulses in ground motion), although relevant damages often occur mostly close to the fault of an earthquake.

In Italy the significance of this topic raised after L’Aquila earthquake in which it seems rupture directivity have occurred. Although directivity and pulse like records are well known since many decades, quantitative models for hazard assessment in near-source conditions are very recent. In fact, ordinary PSHA can be now modified in order to include rupture directivity effects in ground motion. Analytical expression and numerical application of the near-source-adapted PSHA are presented in the paper. Examples, and consequent analyses of results allow to assess the hazard alterations due to directivity. Finally, critical issues are identified and prospects for future developments and eventual inclusion in design codes are provided.