2015/01/01 by Edward H. Field, 2014 Working Group on California Earthquake Probabilities · 1 citation
Computer Science · Earth and Planetary Sciences · Environmental Science · Engineering · Mathematics · #Seismology and Earthquake Studies #earthquake and tectonic studies #Landslides and related hazards #Earthquake prediction #Seismology #Magnitude (astronomy) #Earthquake scenario #Urban seismic risk #Earthquake magnitude #Bridge (graph theory) #Earthquake warning system #Fault (geology) #Earthquake casualty estimation #Earthquake simulation #Geology #Seismic hazard #Forensic engineering #Engineering #Mathematics #Warning system
paper · pdf · doi:10.3133/fs20153009
openalex publication_date 2015/01/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/14
Wi th innovations, fresh data, and lessons learned from recent earthquakes, scientists have developed a new earthquake forecast model for California, a region under constant threat from potentially damaging events. The new model, referred to as the third Uniform California Earthquake Rupture Forecast, or "UCERF3" (http://www.WGCEP.org/ UCERF3), provides authoritative estimates of the magnitude, location, and likelihood of earthquake fault rupture throughout the state. Overall the results confirm previous findings, but with some significant changes because of model improvements. For example, compared to the previous forecast (UCERF2), the likelihood of moderate-sized earthquakes (magnitude 6.5 to 7.5) is lower, whereas that of larger events is higher. This is because of the inclusion of multifault ruptures, where earthquakes are no longer confined to separate, individual faults, but can occasionally rupture multiple faults simultaneously. The public-safety implications of this and other model improvements depend on several factors, including site location and type of structure (for example, family dwelling compared to a long-span bridge). Building codes, earthquake insurance products, emergency plans, and other risk-mitigation efforts will be updated accordingly. This model also serves as a reminder that damaging earthquakes are inevitable for California. Fortunately, there are many simple steps residents can take to protect lives and property.