Mining induced seismicity in UK coalfields identified on the BGS National Seismograph Network

Abstract Earthquakes induced by coal mining are seen often on the widely spaced seismograph stations operated by the British Geological Survey. They are characterized by shallow depths of focus, proximity to current workings, repeatable signals, and good correlation with mining activity. The background and history of such mining induced seismicity is discussed, drawing upon specific examples of past and present activity. Presently active areas include the Midlothian coalfield in Scotland and in particular the village of Rosewell and its immediate surroundings. The series of tremors which has been recorded there during 1985 and 1986 is examined in detail with regard to depth, location, signal character and correlation with mining activity in order to verify its induced nature. These tremors, with magnitudes of up to 2.8 ML, were strongly felt locally and at times caused slight damage. Examples are given of building damage and a crown hole occurrence which may be attributable, at least partially, to these events.