The 11 March 2011 9.0 earthquake near Fukushima, Japan, caused liquefaction as far away as Tokyo.
Tokyo officials say they are now revising their current liquefaction zone map, because the 11 March quake revealed a potentially larger liquefaction zone.
The new map will affect future construction in Tokyo.
Officials in Japan now confirm that liquefaction took place during the 9.0 quake.
This added to the destruction. Roads, power poles and buildings were damaged directly by liquefaction.
Liquefaction is a major concern in the United States along the New Madrid fault line. There is evidence, and reports of liquefaction during a series of strong quakes during the 1800s.
Liquefaction causes solids, like sand, to act like water. It happens when great pressure is applied, as in the case of an earthquake.