diff --git a/src/seismic_hazard_forecasting.py b/src/seismic_hazard_forecasting.py
index d0b0605..a7fad20 100644
--- a/src/seismic_hazard_forecasting.py
+++ b/src/seismic_hazard_forecasting.py
@@ -111,6 +111,14 @@ verbose: {verbose}")
 
     dask.config.set(scheduler='processes')
 
+    # validate m_max against the grond motion model if forecasting was selected
+    models_anthro_limited = ['Lasocki2013', 'Atkinson2015', 'ConvertitoEtAl2012Geysers'] # these models require that m_max<=4.5
+    if forecast_select:
+        if m_max > 4.5 and model in models_anthro_limited: 
+            msg = "Selected ground motion model only valid up to a maximum magnitude of 4.5. Please try again with a lower maximum magnitude."
+            logger.error(msg)
+            raise Exception(msg)
+
     # run magnitude distribution modeling if selected by user and no magnitude pdf file provided
     if m_select and m_range[0] == None and m_pdf[0] == None:
         logger.info("Magnitude distribution modeling selected")