Engineering Seismological Parameters of Two ML 4.3 Intraplate Earthquakes in the Northern Rhine Area, Germany

Two intraplate earthquakes of equal magnitude (ML 4.3) occurring in the northern Rhine area, Germany, in 2011, revealed distinct seismic behavior despite their proximity and similar size. Analysis of ground-motion parameters—such as peak ground acceleration and response amplitude—from stations with identical epicentral distances showed differing decay rates between the Rhenish shield and Lower Rhine embayment sources. Records from four stations in Cologne Cathedral further illustrated variations in structural response, highlighting the influence of local geology on seismic effects. This study leveraged unique datasets from 40 stations, including strong-motion free-field sensors, to derive site-effect-independent distance relations, providing critical insights for earthquake engineering and hazard assessment.

Hinzen, K.-G. (2019). Engineering Seismological Parameters of Two ML 4.3 Intraplate Earthquakes in the Northern Rhine Area, Germany. Seismological Research Letters, 90(3), 1258–1267. https://doi.org/10.1785/0220180265