Liquefaction

Liquefaction occurs when saturated, loose, or sandy soil temporarily loses its strength and stiffness during an earthquake. The shaking causes water between soil particles to increase pressure, making the soil behave like a liquid rather than a solid. This process can lead to the ground sinking, tilting, or collapsing, and can cause buildings and infrastructure to become unstable or sink. Essentially, liquefaction transforms solid ground into a fluid-like state momentarily, posing significant risks to structures built on vulnerable soils during seismic events.