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Yes, the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale is still used today to measure the intensity of earthquakes based on observed effects on people, buildings, and the environment. It provides a valuable complement to seismic magnitude scales in assessing the impact of earthquakes on society.
The Modified Mercalli Intensity scale is used to measure the intensity of an earthquake based on its observed effects on people, buildings, and the natural environment rather than the seismic energy. It provides a qualitative assessment of the shaking and damage caused by an earthquake at a specific location.
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The Modified Mercalli Intensity scale is used in the US to determine the severity of earthquake effects. Intensity ratings are in Roman numerals, I - meaning no people felt movement, all the way up to XII - where almost everything is destroyed.The amount of structural and geological damage done by an earthquake in a specific location determines an earthquake's intensity on the Mercalli scale. :)
The maximum measured intensity of the 2010 Canterbury earthquake in New Zealand was IX (9) on the Modified Mercalli scale.
The Rickter (RICK-tur) scale has been popular for decades to measure the intensity of earthquakes, yet it had its issues. These days the Mercalli scale is most often used by geologists and vulcanologists.
The factors that determine an earthquake's intensity on the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale include the earthquake's magnitude, distance from the epicenter, local geology and ground conditions, and building structures. Intensity also depends on the impact of ground shaking, surface faulting, landslides, and other secondary effects.
Rutlage J Brazee has written: 'Reevaluation of Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale for earthquakes using distance as determinant' -- subject(s): United States, Seismometry, Earthquakes
An intensity of VII on the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale can cause considerable damage to poorly built buildings. This level of intensity typically leads to partial collapse of structures with a likelihood of extensive damage.
The Mercalli intensity scale would be most appropriate for describing historic earthquakes where seismograph records are not available. This scale categorizes earthquakes based on the observed effects on people, buildings, and the environment rather than on instrumental measurements. It provides a qualitative description of the earthquake's intensity and impact.