Shear Wave Velocity‐ and Geology‐Based Seismic Microzonation of Port‐au‐Prince, Haiti

Abstract

A seismic site classification microzonation for the city of Port‐au‐Prince is presented herein. The microzonation is based on 35 shear wave velocity ( V S ) profiles collected throughout the city and a new geologic map of the region. The V S profiles were obtained using the multichannel analysis of surface waves (MASW) method, while the geologic map was developed from a combination of field mapping and geomorphic interpretation of a digital elevation model (DEM). Relationships between mean shear wave velocity over the upper 30 m of the subsurface ( V S30 ) and surficial geologic unit have been developed, permitting code‐based seismic site classification throughout the city. A site classification map for the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program/International Building Code (NEHRP/IBC) classification scheme is provided herein. Much of the city is founded on deposits that classify as either NEHRP Site Class C or D, based on V S30 . Areas of the city requiring additional subsurface information for accurate site classification are noted.