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How do I use QuakeScout?

Learn how to access data on multiple earthquake-related property risk factors

In this article, you'll find answers to the following questions:

What earthquake-related risk factor data is available on QuakeScout, and what does it mean?

For each location in Washington, you can find:

  • Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) Scale: A subjective measure of the intensity of shaking based on recorded earthquakes in the area. The MMI is specific to a location, and, unlike the Richter scale, the MMI measures the effects of an earthquake. Learn more about MMI in our blog post. 
    • Scores of 1 through 4 are considered imperceptible to moderate.
    • Scores of 5 through 8 are strong to destructive.
    • Scores of 9 through 12 are violent to cataclysmic.
  • Lahar presence: Lahar is a type of mudflow. Earthquakes near a volcano can trigger a lahar avalanche and cause significant property damage. Learn more about lahar.
    • If Lahar presence is "Yes," there is a possibility of a lahar avalanche at the location due to an earthquake.  
    • If Lahar presence is "No," there is no possibility of a lahar avalanche at the location due to an earthquake.
  • Liquefaction susceptibility: A measure of how likely soil is to liquefy during an earthquake. Structures built on soil prone to liquefaction will likely suffer more earthquake-related damage than structures built on less-susceptible soil. The determination of liquefaction susceptibility factors in soil type, depth of ground water and other physical characteristics of a soil deposit. Learn more about liquefaction.
  • Tsunami risk: A tsunami can occur after an earthquake. In Washington state, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has studied some parts of the coastline to study tsunami hazard. Learn more about tsunami risk.
    • If the Tsunami Risk is "Yes," the location is in the DNR's study area and is at risk of being affected by a tsunami.
    • If the Tsunami Risk is "No," either:
      • The location is in the DNR's study area and is not at risk of being affected by a tsunami OR
      • The location is not in the DNR's study area.
  • Distance to fault: The distance, in miles, to the nearest fault line.

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How do I find earthquake data using an address?

1. Log into WSRB Solutions.

2. Select "QuakeScout" under the "Additional Risks" tab at the top of the page.

quake scout

    3. Enter the address you would like to search into the provided boxes. Click "Search".


    4. Promptly, you'll see the search results generate.

    eq results

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    How do I find earthquake data using a latitude-longitude?

    1. Log into WSRB Solutions.

    2. Select "QuakeScout" under the "Additional Risks" tab at the top of the page.

    quake scout

    3. In the drop down menu, select "Lat Long" and input your Latitude and Longitude into the provided boxes. Click "Search".


    4. Promptly, you'll see the search results generate.

    Earthquake Risk Report

    Regardless of how you search (Address Search or Lat Long), your Search Results will include the option to access and download a PDF Report. 

    To access the Earthquake Risk Report, click "Get Report". 

    get report

    The Earthquake Risk Report contains all the information from the Search Results in one easy to access file.

    risk

     

    We're always striving to improve. If this article didn't answer your question, please let us know. 

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