Widespread liquefaction hampers reconstruction after M7.6 earthquake in Ishikawa, Japan

Widespread liquefaction hampers reconstruction after M7.6 earthquake in Ishikawa, Japan

In the aftermath of the January 1 earthquake, the city of Wajima in Ishikawa Prefecture faces significant challenges due to liquefaction, severely impacting infrastructure and complicating relief efforts. Continuous aftershocks further hinder the restoration process, with houses, roads, and manholes notably affected. Governor Hiroshi Hase has requested a comprehensive investigation from the central government to address the escalating situation, emphasizing the need for seismic reinforcement of underground infrastructure.

Mapping areas at risk from liquefaction

Mapping areas at risk from liquefaction

A team of researchers has joined forces to investigate and find solutions to tackle one of the most devastating forms of seismic phenomena – liquefaction. Liquefaction occurs in loosely-compacted sandy soils which are fully saturated with water. Seismic vibrations…

Christchurch liquefaction videos

Christchurch liquefaction videos

Soil liquefaction describes a phenomenon whereby a saturated soil substantially loses strength and stiffness in response to an applied stress, usually earthquake shaking or other sudden change in stress condition, causing it to behave like a liquid.In

Christchurch liquefaction could be the biggest in recent history

Christchurch liquefaction could be the biggest in recent history

One of the interesting aspects of the earthquake’s impact on Christchurch has been the phenomenon of liquefaction, where soil and sand is compacted and water is forced to the surface. Liquefaction has been a feature of both Christchurch earthquakes, seen as tonnes of