Development of Site-Specific Earthquake Early Warning System for Hazard Mitigation

Abstract eng:
We have developed a real-time hazard mitigation system using earthquake early warning to achieve (1) enhanced accuracy of seismic intensity estimation and (2) extension of interval from issuance of warning to arrival of strong tremors. Firstly, we have succeeded in reducing the error in seismic intensity estimation compared to that of the commonly used method based on an attenuation relationship and soil amplification factor by considering differences of source locations and propagation passes based on a site-specific empirical method. Secondly, the developed system utilizes a high-speed and reliable communication network for receiving information from JMA and quickly transmitting warning signals to users. In areas close to the epicenters of earthquakes, however, the warning may not be transmitted before strong tremors hit. We have therefore developed an on-site warning system using P-wave-pick-up sensors that can detect the arrival of P-waves at a site and predict the seismic intensity of ensuing ground motion to reduce the time until warning. We validated the prototype system based on vibration tests, numerical simulations and observations. Finally, we installed a practical system at a construction site in the aftershock source area of the 2008 Iwate-Miyagi inland earthquake and confirmed its applicability and accuracy.

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