Abstract
We calculated the quality factor, Qc, at frequencies from 6 to 24 Hz using coda waves of 97 aftershocks of the Petatlan, Mexico, earthquake (March 14, 1979; MS =7.6). The data were recorded parallel (between Acapulco and Playa Azul) and perpendicular (between Petatlan and Mexico City) to the coast. The results are the following: at 12 and 24 Hz there is no significant difference in the attenuation (Qc-1) along the two paths; at 6 Hz, Qc-1 has a large scatter in both directions. This observation indicates strong site effects at this frequency; average Qc-1 is slightly higher between Petatlan-Acapulco (toward SE) than between Petatlan-Playa Azul (toward NW); and at high frequencies, Qc-1 remains essentially constant perpendicular to the coast. These results show that the large seismic wave amplifications in Mexico City are caused by shallow site effects. © 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.