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Abstract Popocatépetl is a highly active stratovolcano in central Mexico with recurrent activity of Vulcanian-type explosions and frequent degassing. The proximity of Popocatépetl volcano to Mexico City, one of the most populated cities in the world, demands continuous monitoring to achieve an adequate volcano risk assessment. We present an overview of the first high-dynamic-range and high-broadband (0.01–200 Hz; 400 Hz sampling rate) seismoacoustic network (PoPiNet), which we operated around Popocatépetl volcano from August 2021 to May 2022. Here, we show preliminary results of the explosions recorded in September 2021. We deployed five seismoacoustic stations within 4–25 km horizontal distance (range) from the vent. We identify infrasonic waveforms associated with tremor and explosions, with pressures ranging from 16 to 134 Pa and dominant frequencies between 0.2 and 5.0 Hz. The frequency content of the recorded signals at the closest stations to the volcano spans the sub-bass (20–60 Hz) and bass (60–250 Hz) ranges. The associated seismic signals of moderate explosions exhibit air-to-ground coupled waves with maximum coherence values at frequencies up to 5 and 25 Hz for the farthest and closest stations to the volcano, respectively. Conversely, we observe infrasound signal amplitudes from relatively small explosions reaching maximum pressures of 10 Pa that do not couple into the ground, even at the closest stations. These infrasound signals are associated with type-I long-period events as reported in previous investigations. The waveform consistency suggests repetitive and nondestructive sources beneath the volcano. 

In this study, a simplified shallow three-dimensional shear wave velocity (Vs) model is presented for the Mexico City Basin. To this end, previous studies were carefully reviewed to assemble a database of Vs and site period measurements for the region. The new site period measurements obtained at the western edge of the Basin were compared to the existing 2004 Complementary Technical Standards of Mexico site period nominal map, (NTC, 2004) the Lermo et al. (2020) site period map, and Design Seismic Actions System (SASID), 2020 site period predictions. Each site period prediction method was shown to have differences with respect to the new measurements along the western edge of the Basin. However, there was no bias for the prediction methods with the Lermo et al. (2020) and SASID predictions, demonstrating less error between the measured values than the NTC (2004) predictions. To develop the three-dimensional Vs model, the shallow (top 60 m) subsurface was divided into five generalized soil layers. The site period was used as the only input for the three-dimensional Vs model to simplify and maximize the model’s applicability. The performance of the model was assessed by comparing the measured and predicted Vs profiles. Overall, the three-dimensional Vs model developed in this study is a valuable tool that can be used along with geophysical estimates of deeper structure for ground motion modeling and preliminary site response studies along with other benefits to the seismic resiliency of the region. 

Dynamic site characterization was performed at 25 sites located on the western portion of the Mexico City Basin that were severely damaged during the Mw7.1 2017 Puebla–Morelos, Mexico, earthquake. Testing was conducted using active and passive seismic surface wave methods and the microtremor horizontal-to-vertical spectral ratio method to determine site periods and develop one-dimensional (1D) shear wave velocity ( Vs) profiles for the first 60 m of the subsoil. The measured site periods were compared to site period maps developed in 2004 and 2020 along with values computed using the Design Seismic Actions System (SASID) software following the 2020 version of the Complementary Technical Norms for Seismic Design (NTC-DS). The most noticeable biases in the predictions from the 2004 site period map were observed between the boundary of Zone II and Zone IIIa, at which site periods are overestimated. These estimates were improved upon in the 2020 site period map and showed a close similarity with SASID computed site period values. The Vs, depth, and thickness of the lacustrine clay layer were also determined to be quite variable within the basin. The softest sites are located between the lakebeds with a Vs between 45 and 57 m/s. Sites located toward the outer rim of the North lakebed have a higher Vs between 80 and 100 m/s. The thickness of the clay layer varies significantly in the western side of the Basin with values ranging between approximately 3 and 34 m. Overall, the results of this study indicate good agreement with the model embedded in the SASID software. The results (1) emphasize the need to regularly monitor changes that occur over time in the lacustrine clay layer, (2) complement the development of models that improve our understanding of wave propagation within the Basin, and (3) update and improve Mexico City’s Norms.