Earthquakes and seismic hazard

Monitoring seismicity on the stable Fennoscandian Shield is the basis for an updated earthquake database.

The earthquake and seismic hazard research group at the Institute of Seismology identifies human-induced seismic events from natural background seismicity, collects macroseismic observations, and investigates pre-instrumental seismicity. Research of earthquake mechanisms and distribution improves knowledge of the Shield.

Our research also focuses on improving methods to analyse seismic hazard, supporting the mandatory safety evaluation of critical infrastructure.

We contribute to Finland’s natural hazard warning system (LUOVA) by providing expert assessments of major earthquakes worldwide.

LUOVA Natural Disaster Warning System

LUOVA system is a service intended for authorities. It warns about natural disasters that take place in Finland and abroad. The particular aim for the development of the system was to improve and clarify communication related to natural disasters.