Järelvalves

Järelvalves, also known as aftershocks, are seismic events that occur after a larger earthquake, known as the mainshock. They are typically less powerful than the mainshock and can continue for days, weeks, or even months after the initial event. Aftershocks are a result of the Earth's crust readjusting to the stress changes caused by the mainshock. The frequency and magnitude of aftershocks decrease over time, following a pattern known as the Omori law.

Aftershocks can cause additional damage and pose risks to people and infrastructure, especially in areas already affected by the mainshock. They can also make it difficult to assess the full extent of the damage caused by the mainshock. The study of aftershocks is important for understanding earthquake sequences and improving earthquake hazard assessments.

The location of aftershocks is typically within a few tens of kilometers of the mainshock's epicenter, although they can occur at greater distances. The depth of aftershocks is usually similar to that of the mainshock. The magnitude of aftershocks can range from very small, barely perceptible events, to events that are almost as large as the mainshock.

Aftershocks are a natural part of the earthquake process and cannot be predicted with certainty. However, scientists can estimate the likelihood of aftershocks based on the magnitude of the mainshock and the passage of time. This information is used to guide emergency response and recovery efforts.