SwissPaleodatabase 2.0: an updated palaeoseismological database for Switzerland

Palaeoseismological databases are important for reconstructing long-term seismic activity in regions where historical and instrumental records of large earthquakes are limited. We present SwissPaleodatabase 2.0, an updated compilation of published geological, geomorphological, archaeological and historical observations with potential paleoseismological relevance from Switzerland and surrounding Alpine regions. Compared to version 1.0, the database includes revised chronologies, additional evidence types, improved spatial information and interoperable .csv formats. The updated dataset reinforces previously identified phases of enhanced evidence occurrence. A re-assessment of the 2200–2500 cal yr BP interval illustrates how integrated databases can support the identification of spatial-temporal evidence patterns and the evaluation of possible palaeoseismic scenarios. Despite uncertainties related to dating precision and trigger attribution, SwissPaleodatabase 2.0 provides a valuable framework for future palaeoseismological and interdisciplinary natural hazard investigations.

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Publication Details

Journal
Swiss Journal of Geosciences
Published
2026-11-09
DOI
https://doi.org/10.3897/sjg.119.205581
Primary Topic
earthquake and tectonic studies
Type
article
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article

SwissPaleodatabase 2.0: an updated palaeoseismological database for Switzerland

Katrina Kremer, Donat Fäh
Swiss Journal of Geosciences
earthquake and tectonic studies
article

SwissPaleodatabase 2.0: an updated palaeoseismological database for Switzerland

Katrina Kremer, Donat Fäh
article en

Abstract

Palaeoseismological databases are important for reconstructing long-term seismic activity in regions where historical and instrumental records of large earthquakes are limited. We present SwissPaleodatabase 2.0, an updated compilation of published geological, geomorphological, archaeological and historical observations with potential paleoseismological relevance from Switzerland and surrounding Alpine regions. Compared to version 1.0, the database includes revised chronologies, additional evidence types, improved spatial information and interoperable .csv formats. The updated dataset reinforces previously identified phases of enhanced evidence occurrence. A re-assessment of the 2200–2500 cal yr BP interval illustrates how integrated databases can support the identification of spatial-temporal evidence patterns and the evaluation of possible palaeoseismic scenarios. Despite uncertainties related to dating precision and trigger attribution, SwissPaleodatabase 2.0 provides a valuable framework for future palaeoseismological and interdisciplinary natural hazard investigations.

Swiss Journal of GeosciencesVol. 119
University of Bern (CH), ETH Zurich (CH), Swiss Seismological Service (CH)
earthquake and tectonic studies
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