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Aftershock Monitoring Guide

Learn aftershock monitoring from scratch with a clear step-by-step workflow, recommended tools, safety guidelines, and expert tips.

network seismologistshazard teams

Workflow

  1. Lower Detection Threshold

    ongoing

    Reduce triggers; staff for 10× normal rate after M6+.

  2. Update Real-Time Catalog

    ongoing

    Hourly preliminary; daily reviewed unified magnitudes.

  3. Fit Omori Decay

    2 hours daily

    Model n(t) = K/(t+c)^p for sequence forecast.

  4. Communicate Decaying Hazard

    1 hour daily

    Report M≥5 probability to emergency managers.

Checklist

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Planning

Preparation

Safety

Execution

Reference Materials

Omori LawStandard

n(t) = K/(c+t)^p; typical p ≈ 1.0–1.2.

Båth's LawFormula

Largest aftershock ~1.2 units below mainshock on average.

Omori p ValuesTable

By setting.

SettingpDuration
Crustal1.1Months
Subduction0.9Years
Geothermal1.3Weeks
  • Label in Field

    Label samples immediately with date, GPS coordinates, and habitat notes.

  • Chain of Custody

    Maintain sample integrity from collection through lab analysis.

  • Wildlife Safety

    Know venomous species and territorial animals in your study area.

Safety Notes

  • Forecasts are probabilistic only.
  • Maintain redundant power during deployment.

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