GeoNet’s Shaking Layer Tool: Generation of near-real time ground shaking for post-event response

Abstract

Information on ground shaking following an earthquake is important for many applications from emergency response, engineering assessments, infrastructure management, insurance claim estimation and research. GeoNet, along with the RCET Endeavour programme, is developing a tool, named Shaking Layers, that produces maps of ground shaking across New Zealand in the minutes after an earthquake. Shaking Layers uses the USGS ShakeMap software to create maps of PGA, PGV, MMI and Sa(T) for M4.0 and above earthquakes. The model combines observed ground motions from strong motion stations with ground motion models to produce spatial estimates of ground shaking for each intensity metric type. The first maps are available within 10-20 minutes of an earthquake. The maps are automatically generated and updated in the first instance, and can be manually updated by GNS Science seismologists if new information is available, such as a fault rupture model, earthquake tectonic type, moment tensor solutions and felt reports. This presentation will give an overview of GeoNet’s Shaking Layer Tool and outline to the NZSEE community how they can access Shaking Layer information through the GeoNet website, the Shaking Layer data website, and an API.