Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) using model updating methods has emerged as a highly effective approach for critical applications including detection of structural failures. By continuously monitoring structural responses, this approach allows real-time assessment of a structure’s health, thus addressing potential anomalies before they lead to catastrophic failures. In this study, a model updating method is performed for assessing the structural resilience of truss bridges under localized damage scenarios. To achieve this, a Finite Element (FE) model is developed as a reference for a scaled-down version of a real steel truss bridge. The numerical model is then simulated under various damage states, involving the sudden loss of one or two structural member(s). An analysis is performed for each damage scenario using several indicators such as axial forces and frequency changes regarding the intact state, and the maximum deflection. This approach enables the identification of critical damage scenarios and evaluates their impact on structural behavior, providing insight into potential failure mechanisms. The results of this study emphasize the approach's effectiveness in facilitating timely maintenance and repairs, thereby enhancing the reliability and cost-effectiveness of structural monitoring systems.