Investigation of ULF Seismo-Magnetic Phenomena in Kanto, Japan During 2000–2010: Case Studies and Statistical Studies

Abstract

In order to clarify the ultra low frequency (ULF) seismo-magnetic phenomena, a sensitive geomagnetic network has been installed in Kanto, Japan. In this study, we have analyzed geomagnetic data observed during the past decade in Izu and Boso Peninsulas. Energy of ULF geomagnetic signals at the frequency around 0.01 Hz has been investigated by wavelet transform analysis. To identify anomalous changes in ionospheric disturbances, the station Memabutsu has been chosen as a reference station. Case studies of magnitude 6 class earthquakes have demonstrated that there are unusual geomagnetic energy enhancements in the vertical component before the main shocks. Statistical studies by superposed epoch analysis have indicated that, before a sizeable earthquake, there are clearly higher probabilities of ULF anomalies than after the earthquake: statistical results of daily counts were found significant at about 3–4 weeks before, 1 week before, few days before, and 1 day after the event for Seikoshi station in Izu and around 2 weeks before, few days before, and 1 day after the event for Kiyosumi station in Boso, respectively.