Pore Water Pressure Response of Fully Saturated Soil Beds during Earthquake–Tsunami Multi‐Hazards

Abstract

Abstract Soil liquefaction causes significant damage to coastal infrastructure and buildings worldwide. Strong earthquake shaking can cause soil liquefaction in fully saturated sand deposits. Also, tsunamis can induce liquefaction, as well as enhanced sediment transport and scour, in coastal areas. To understand soil liquefaction potential during an earthquake–tsunami multi‐hazard, we develop a numerical model to predict the multi‐hazard induced excess pore water pressures. We calibrate and verify the numerical model by comparing results with laboratory experiments. Then, we perform numerical experiments using a recorded earthquake motion and hypothetical tsunami wave heights. The numerical experiments show that beach sand liquefies during earthquake loading. The sand then resediments during the quiescent period and the tsunami runup stage. Finally, during rapid tsunami drawdown, liquefaction can occur again, and liquefaction potential during tsunami drawdown primarily depends on the soil’s hydraulic conductivity, as well as the duration of the quiescent period. The results emphasize the need for predictions of earthquake–tsunami loading, as well as measurements of soil properties in coastal areas.