Does Liquefaction Cause Damage?

Liquefaction takes place when loosely packed, water-logged sediments at or near the ground surface lose their strength in response to strong ground shaking. Liquefaction occurring beneath buildings and other structures can cause major damage during earthquakes.

How dangerous is liquefaction?

When the ground liquefies, it may lose its ability to support buildings and other structures. Liquefaction during large earthquakes commonly disrupts pipelines and road networks and also may cause buildings to settle and move downslope or toward stream banks.

What is liquefaction and its effects?

Soil Liquefaction Due to Earthquakes

Earthquake motion can turn loosely packed, water-saturated soil to liquid—"liquefaction.” Liquefied soil loses its density and ultimately the ability to support roads, buried pipes, and, of course, houses.