An earthquake in Myanmar, 600 miles away, caused swaying in Bangkok skyscrapers due to low-frequency seismic waves. While high-frequency waves caused destruction near the epicenter, low-frequency waves traveled further along the Earth's crust. Buildings in Bangkok felt the effects, demonstrating how different seismic frequencies can impact structures at varying distances. This phenomenon echoes past incidents, like the Denali earthquake, which splashed water in Texas pools. Understanding these wave behaviors enhances insight into earthquake impacts and building resilience.
When a large earthquake strikes, it simultaneously radiates different frequencies of shaking. Some produce a rapid back-and-forth rattling, others low-frequency swaying.
Low frequency waves travel along the earth's crust and for greater distances, capable of causing movement in buildings far away from the quake's epicenter.
The earthquake in Myanmar produced violent, high-frequency seismic waves that destroyed low-rise buildings, while lower frequency waves traveled far enough to impact structures in Bangkok.
During the 7.9 magnitude Denali earthquake in 2002, low frequency waves traveled so far they caused water in swimming pools in Texas to splash harmlessly.
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