An indicator kriging model for investigation of seismic hazard

Time domain probabilistic techniques most often are used for assessment of seismic hazard. Such techniques are based on the historic frequency of ground motion. Hazard is expressed as a probability of experiencing a particular level of seismic activity over a given length of time. One of these techniques utilizes frequency of extreme values for assessment of hazard. The major disadvantage of this technique, however, becomes evident when maximum seismic activity for two consecutive years occurs only a few weeks or months apart. In this case, the extreme value approach overestimates seismic hazard. A new approach for hazard assessment is founded on principles of indicator kriging. This technique evaluates seismic hazard as a simple frequency record, which is more realistic for regions of little to moderate seismicity.