Abstract:Based on SPT-N data of seismic safety evaluation controlled drillings and the results of seismic ground motion parameter zonation in the urban area of Wuhan, the possibility of liquefaction of soil layers in rare earthquakes is determined by the method of code. The liquefaction index and the sites coordinates are used to draw the map of liquefaction potential in the urban area of Wuhan. The map initially predicts the possible liquefaction areas and severity levels, and also shows that the right bank of the Yangtze river contains both greater distribution area and stronger liquefaction potential than the left bank. Comparison analysis on the liquefaction data of four historical earthquakes illustrates that the possible liquefied sites in Wuhan urban area are characterized by shallow groundwater table, wide distribution and large buried depth of liquefied soil layers.