Earthquake Hydrogeology

Hydrologic responses to earthquakes such as streamflow increases, water-level changes, and changes in geyser eruption frequency often reflect changes in permeability caused by seismic waves. The dynamic nature of permeability, as revealed by coseismic hydrologic phenomena, holds implications for groundwater systems, geothermal resources, mineral resources, and geologic hazards. Analysis of water-level responses to solid Earth tides and changes in atmospheric pressure provides a passive way to continuously monitor changes in permeability and storage properties in tectonically active regions. Plain Language Summary Earthquakes affect groundwater by changing properties of aquifers and their ability to transmit fluids. Monitoring how water levels in wells respond to tides and atmospheric pressure provides an inexpensive way to monitor changes in aquifers. Properties of aquifers are not static but change over time.