Soil liquefaction in Tokyo Bay area due to the 2011 Tohoku (Japan) earthquake

Abstract

A devastating earthquake hit the Tohoku and Kanto regions of Japan on 11 March 2011, causing extensive damage to life and property as a result of a large-scale tsunami and damage to nuclear power plants. Although located about 400 km away from the epicentre, many residential and commercial buildings and lifeline facilities in Tokyo Bay area suffered extensive damage due to soil liquefaction and associated ground deformation. This paper discusses the results of the damage investigation conducted in the area after the earthquake, with emphasis on liquefaction-induced damage to buildings, roads, lifelines and other infrastructure. In addition, the performance of ground improved by various remediation techniques is discussed. Finally, lessons learned from the event are summarised.