2D FEM Numerical Prediction of Local Seismic Effects at San Salvador Municipality (El Salvador) Induced by 2001 Earthquakes

San Salvador Metropolitan Area (MASS) is an urbanized territory in the country of El Salvador, located between volcano and Ilopango caldera, a sub-flat area called “Valle de las Hamacas” (Valley Hammocks). The high seismicity this due to subduction zone Cocos plate that causes strong seismic events such as earthquakes occurred on 13 January (7.6 Mw) February 2001 (6.6 Mw). As part international cooperation project Italy (AICS) University, CASTES focussed natural hazards was launched. Therefore, 2D simulations are carried out along two sections evaluate Local Seismic Response (LSR) Southeast MASS territory. Results show spatially variable amplifications (from 3 6.5) period ranging 0.1–0.7 s evidence lateral FA variations can be calculated only through numerical analyses. Two amplified periods recognised, 0.1–0.5 0.4–0.8 s, presence types subsoil volcanic deposits: shallow soft Tierra Blanca deposits deeper stiffer Volcanic ash Tuff.