Reservoir-Induced Seismicity and Geological Instability
Large reservoirs can cause seismic events as they fill and as the pressure on local faults
increases (ICE 1981). Such reservoir-induced seismicity was predicted for the Three
Gorges region, which is already seismically active and indeed, there has been an
increase in reported seismic activity in the region following construction of the dam
and the filling of the reservoir. Official statements minimize the importance of this,
saying that “no unusual phenomena which could disrupt the stability of Three Gorges
Dam have occurred” – a far cry from saying that there have been no significant
damages to individuals, homes, or businesses (People’s Daily Online 2007).