Preliminary investigation into the cause of acid mine water induced seismicity in Johannesburg

Abstract

A preliminary investigation was done into the possible causes of theincreased seismic activity in the Witwatersrand Basin. The paper focuseson approximated underground mining areas, groundwater mobility, rocktypes and the proximity of fault lines to seismic events. Theseparameters were mapped and correlated with observed seismicity in thearea. There is some indication that the presence of underground miningareas has a positive relationship with the occurrence of seismic events.The other parameters exhibit a negative relationship with seismicactivity. However, more detailed investigations are required beforefinal conclusions can be drawn. An approach to risk assessment ofpossible earthquake scenarios in the City of Johannesburg (CoJ) isproposed. The approach aims to assess potential damage to infrastructureand loss of life in the case of an earthquake. The results of such anassessment may provide justification for more detailed investigations.