Documentation for Initial Seismic Hazard Maps for Haiti
- Seismic hazard is substantial throughout Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
- The highest hazard areas are around the northeastern subduction zone, the Muertos subduction zone, and the Septentrional and Enriquillo Faults.
- Site amplification due to soil conditions increases ground motion in areas like Port-au-Prince and the Artibonite River Valley.
- The Matheux Neiba Fault Zone presents a significant hazard, particularly in the 2-percent probability of exceedance maps.
- These initial maps will be revised and improved as more data become available.
In response to the urgent need for earthquake-hazard information after the January 12, 2010 earthquake, this report constructs initial probabilistic seismic hazard maps for Haiti. These maps are based on current information on fault slip rates and historical and instrumental seismicity. The methodology follows that developed for the U.S. national seismic hazard maps, incorporating seismic hazard calculated from crustal faults, subduction zones, and spatially smoothed seismicity. The report details the assumptions made due to the lack of information on faults in Haiti and stresses the need for further fieldwork and research to improve these initial maps, which are important for managing the current crisis and developing building codes and standards for rebuilding.
How to cite
U.S. Geological Survey; Purdue University, 2010, Documentation for Initial Seismic Hazard Maps for Haiti, accessed via HaitiDocs, https://www.haitidocs.org/doc/u-s-2010-documentation-initial-seismic