A probabilistic seismic hazard assessment for Sulawesi, Indonesia
Abstract
A probabilistic seismic hazard assessment that includes the effect of site amplification is undertaken for the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia. High seismic activity rates, both along fast-slipping crustal faults including the major Palu-Koro–Matano Fault System and in regions of distributed deformation, contribute to moderate–high earthquake hazard over all but the SW part of the island. Of particular concern in terms of seismic risk are the numerous cities sited on soft sedimentary basins that have formed due to movement along presently active structures and that can be expected to amplify earthquake ground motions, including the provincial capitals of Palu and Gorontalo.
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Geohazards in Indonesia: Earth Science for Disaster Risk Reduction
With dense urban populations located in one of the most active tectonic belts in the world, Indonesia is a hotspot for natural hazard risk. During the twentieth century, Indonesia had limited means to keep natural disaster fatalities from rising commensurately with the explosive growth in population. This situation is changing rapidly, however, with major political and economic advances over the past two decades having led to substantial investments in seismic and geodetic infrastructure. The potential for advances in Earth science to reduce natural disaster fatalities in Indonesia has never been greater.
This Special Publication documents some of the recent advances made by Earth scientists that contribute towards a better understanding of geological hazards in Indonesia.