Earthquake Basics: Liquefaction what it is and what to do about it

Abstract

This brief is meant to be used with two slide sets that illustrate (1) the phenomenon of liquefaction and (2) mitigation options for liquefaction. The authors hope that the information presented here conveys, to policymakers in particular, that better understanding of the risk from liquefaction at a particular site or area leads to better decisions regarding mitigation options, response planning, and preparedness strategies. With good liquefaction opportunity and susceptibility maps as a starting point, public officials and private property owners can make informed decisions about how to concentrate limited resources to manage and reduce the risk.