First seismic T-Phase events for 2015

In summary, a magnitude 6.0 earthquake occurred in the central South Island of New Zealand on January 6th. This is not uncommon due to the country's location on the Indo-Australian and Pacific Plate boundary. However, what makes this event unique is that it is the first time T-phase waves have been recorded from an inland event. These waves were larger than the P and S waves and were first observed around 1810UT. Despite being widely reported in the news, there have not been any reports of damage in nearby communities such as Arthur's Pass and Cass. This discovery continues to surprise experts in the field of seismology.
  • #1
davenn
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hi everyone,
Well we are into a new year and into new discoveries and observations

Yesterday morning, Jan 6th, 0548NZST ( 05 Jan 1748UT) there was a reasonable quake in the mountains of the central South Island of New Zealand M 6.0 GNZ ( M 5.6 USGS). Now the quake itself isn't unusual, NZ is prone to regular quakes because of its location straddling the Indo-Australian Plate and Pacific Plate boundary.
What was unusual is that this is the first time I have seen/recorded T-phase waves from an inland event.
All previous events have been under the seafloor, see previous thread ... https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/seismic-t-waves.785155/

This first image is of the long period seismogram to show the overall quake. The T-phase is not identifiable in this image as it is buried in amongst the surface waves

150105 174842UT M5.6 ( 6.0GNS) Sth Is event with T-phase1.jpg
This second image shows the P wave arrival at 1752UT and the T-Phase arriving at ~ 1810UT
Note its amplitude is much larger than either the P or S arrivals ( actually the S wave arrival cannot be seen)

150105 174842UT M5.6 ( 6.0GNS) Sth Is event with T-phase .jpg
The surprises that this subject of seismology is still coming up with :)

cheers
Dave
 
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  • #2
I was going to ask about that. Been on the news for hours, and no post, I was starting to wonder.
 
  • #3
It was out in the middle of nowhere. Arthur's Pass would have been about the closest community, maybe Cass. I have not heard of any damage reports. Tho many closer in probably did have crockery off shelves etc
 

1. What are seismic T-Phase events?

Seismic T-Phase events are low-frequency sound waves that are generated by underwater earthquakes or other seismic activity. They travel through the ocean at high speeds and can be detected by specialized listening devices.

2. What do the first seismic T-Phase events for 2015 indicate?

The first seismic T-Phase events for 2015 indicate the start of a new year of monitoring and recording seismic activity in the ocean. They may also provide valuable data for researchers studying earthquake patterns and potential hazards.

3. How are seismic T-Phase events detected?

Seismic T-Phase events are detected using specialized hydrophones, or underwater microphones, which are designed to pick up low-frequency sound waves. These hydrophones are placed strategically throughout the ocean to capture seismic activity.

4. Are seismic T-Phase events a cause for concern?

Seismic T-Phase events themselves are not a cause for concern, as they are a natural occurrence and can be used to better understand seismic activity in the ocean. However, they may be an indication of potential earthquake activity or other natural events, which may require further monitoring and research.

5. How can the data from seismic T-Phase events be used?

The data from seismic T-Phase events can be used by scientists and researchers to study earthquake patterns, monitor potential hazards, and improve our understanding of the Earth's structure and dynamics. This information can also be used to inform emergency preparedness and response efforts in areas prone to seismic activity.

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