The Rapidly Changing Perception of Seismic Hazards in the Pacific Northwest: Implications to Dam Safety

In the past 15 years, a revolution in our understanding of the earthquake potential in the Pacific Northwest has occurred. An outpouring of new geologic, seismologic, and geophysical information has resulted in rapid changes in our perception of the region's seismic hazards. The resulting realization that seismic hazards are higher than previously recognized raises the issue of the adequacy of the seismic design of dams in the region, the vast majority of which are more than 15 years old. New and revised characterizations of seismic sources and ground motions in the Pacific Northwest and their implications to hazards are summarized. 12 pp., 33 references.