Enhancing seismological ShakeMaps in urban areas using smartphone data and multivariate spatial statistical models

Francesco Finazzi (University of Bergamo)

Wednesday 8th July 12:00-13:00
Maths 311B

Abstract

ShakeMaps are static maps that show the intensity of ground shaking after an earthquake. In urban areas, where seismic risk is concentrated, it is crucial to rapidly produce high-quality, high-resolution ShakeMaps. However, seismological networks are usually too sparse to capture the small-scale variability of ground shaking. Citizen science initiatives like the Earthquake Network use people's smartphones to implement high-resolution seismic monitoring using the built-in accelerometer. Smartphone data, however, is low-quality and biased. This work demonstrates how multivariate spatial statistical models can enhance ShakeMaps by fusing sparse, high-quality measurements with dense, low-quality data, eliminating the need for expensive and time-consuming calibration between instruments. This methodology has been applied to the Campi Flegrei area in Italy, where around 500,000 people are exposed to high seismic risk.

Add to your calendar

Download event information as iCalendar file (only this event)