Updated probabilistic seismic hazard assessment using Mwg (Das magnitude scale) to address moment magnitude (M) scale inaccuracies below 7.5: a case study from Northeast India

This study uses the Das magnitude scale (M wg ) to improve probabilistic seismic hazard assessment (PSHA) in Northeast India, where traditional M scales introduce inaccuracies for events below M 7.5. The M scale is mathematically flawed in this range, being based on an equation derived for Ms ≲ 7.0—an inconsistency evident in the observed data. Using a unified earthquake catalog of 9,968 events, calibrated to M wg , in conjunction with region-specific seismogenic zones and observed-data-validated ground motion models, hazard spectra were derived for 475- and 2475-year return periods. The resulting PSHA indicates maximum peak ground accelerations (PGA) of 0.908 g and 1.5405 g for 10% and 2% exceedance probabilities over 50 years, respectively. Comparative analysis revealed significant discrepancies between M and M wg , with M overestimating ground motion by up to 40% for the 475-year return period and 20% for The 2475-year return period, particularly in regions prone to medium-range earthquakes. This overestimation of the M scale (mainly for smaller and medium earthquakes) was previously reported by Choy and Boatwright in 1995 using the Gutenberg–Richter energy equation. This issue can be effectively addressed by adopting the M wg scale, which provides a more accurate representation of seismic energy. Furthermore, M scale underestimated PGA by up to 10% for very large magnitude events. These discrepancies, particularly overestimation in smaller and medium earthquake ranges, have critical implications for structural design. The adoption of M wg provides a more accurate seismic hazard representation, necessitating a reevaluation of current building codes and emergency response protocols in Northeast India.