Further Earthquake Links

For those who have more than a passing interest in Earthquake research happening in the Eastern US (i.e. not California) we have plenty of resources.

First off is the USGS - US Geological Survey. They are the clearinghouse for all things dealing with rock, soil, faults, etc. You will still need a qualified soils engineer to determine site classification, but their soil explorer program can sometimes provide you with some interesting advance information. If a previous soil boring was reported to the USGS, and it showed bedrock at 5 feet, you can make an assumption that soil classification will be favorable.


Next up is the Mid-America Earthquake Center. This is a group of researchers dedicated to mitigating the possible problems that a large earthquake in the Central US might cause. They especially focus on the many historic buildings (unreinforced masonry) and even modern buildings that were built before awareness of the seismic risk in the area. The worst historic earthquake (magnitude, not damage) was in this area, so there is a good reason to be concerned. A good source for graduate funding, too.

Then there is the Central US Earthquake Consortium. This was started by FEMA to handle the human aspects of Earthquakes. So this doesn't deal so much with research, but is all about the government response and disaster preparedness/awareness. It's all about coordination. A good resource nonetheless.


CERI is another great resource. They have a lot of independent information, as well as links for teachers and students. Was able to find a waveform taken from a Missouri station of the earthquake here. These people also have graduate funding programs available for students.

More general information about midwest earthquake risks:
New Madrid Seismic Zone
Wabash Valley Seismic Zone

I believe the most important thing when anyone asks an engineer about these topics, or related disaster topics such as building collapses, hurricanes, etc. is to refer them to the appropriate spokespersons for our industry. Alternatively, read up or interview someone from one the groups in advance if you know that a newspaper or media outlet will be contacting you for a response. It is essential that the public knows the most recent information and that we present the consensus opinion to the media. Don't take the fools way out and use the publicity to invent your own conspiracy theory.

update - 5/30/08

How could I forget about NEHRP? The National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program is another government entity dedicated to reducing earthquake losses in the US. This is a great resource for any structural engineer dealing with seismic design. It is especially relevant for older buildings that are being updated or going through seismic hazard mitigation. The methodologies used are somewhat different from the IBC and UBC code provisions for new buildings and you won't always get a "yes/no" answer on a design. They have also posted a recent newsletter describing the efforts to develop a consensus based document for performance based design of seismic resistant structures. See the interim FEMA 461 document here.