scholarly journals An integrated structural and GPS study of the Jalpatagua fault, southeastern Guatemala

Geosphere ◽  
2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bridget Garnier ◽  
Basil Tikoff ◽  
Omar Flores ◽  
Brian Jicha ◽  
Charles DeMets ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
El Salvador ◽  
Global Positioning System ◽  
Slip Rate ◽  
Fault Analysis ◽  
Fault System ◽  
Normal Faults ◽  
Central Section ◽  
Global Positioning ◽  
Major Fault ◽  
Fault Trace

The Jalpatagua fault in Guatemala accommodates dextral movement of the Central America forearc. We present new global positioning system (GPS) data, minor fault analysis, geochronological analyses, and analysis of lineaments to characterize deformation along the fault and near its terminations. Our data indicate that the Jalpatagua fault terminates at both ends into extensional regions. The western termination occurs near the Amatitlan caldera and the southern extension of the Guatemala City graben, as no through-going structures were observed to continue west into the active volcanic arc. Along the Jalpatagua fault, new and updated GPS site velocities are consistent with a slip rate of 7.1 ± 1.8 mm yr–1. Minor faulting along the central section of the fault includes: (1) N-S–striking normal faults accommodating E-W elongation; and (2) four sets of strike-slip faults (oriented 330°, 020°, 055°, and 295°, parallel to the Jalpatagua fault trace). Minor fault arrays support dextral movement along a major fault in the orientation of the Jalpatagua fault. GPS and fault data indicate that the Jalpatagua fault terminates to the east near the Guatemala–El Salvador border. Data delineate a pull-apart basin southeast of the fault termination, which is undergoing transtension as the Jalpatagua fault transitions into the El Salvador fault system to the east. Within the basin, minor faulting and lineations trend to the NW and accommodate NE-directed elongation. This faulting differs from E-W elongation observed along the Jalpatagua fault and is more similar to minor faults within the El Salvador fault system.

scholarly journals Methodology for Earthquake Rupture Rate estimates of fault networks: example for the Western Corinth Rift, Greece

2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Thomas Chartier ◽  
Oona Scotti ◽  
Hélène Lyon-Caen ◽  
Aurélien Boiselet
Keyword(s):  
Active Faults ◽  
Slip Rate ◽  
Seismic Hazard Assessment ◽  
System Level ◽  
Fault System ◽  
Normal Faults ◽  
Accurate Estimation ◽  
Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Assessment ◽  
Earthquake Rupture ◽  
Multiple Faults

Abstract. Modelling the seismic potential of active faults is a fundamental step of probabilistic seismic hazard assessment (PSHA). An accurate estimation of the rate of earthquakes on the faults is necessary in order to obtain the probability of exceedance of a given ground motion. Most PSHA studies consider faults as independent structures and neglect the possibility of multiple faults or fault segments rupturing simultaneously (Fault to Fault -FtF- ruptures). The latest Californian model (UCERF-3) takes into account this possibility by considering a system level approach rather than an individual fault level approach using the geological , seismological and geodetical information to invert the earthquake rates. In many places of the world seismological and geodetical information long fault networks are often not well constrained. There is therefore a need to propose a methodology relying only on geological information to compute earthquake rate of the faults in the network. In this methodology, similarly to UCERF-3, a simple distance criteria is used to define FtF ruptures and consider single faults or FtF ruptures as an aleatory uncertainty. Rates of earthquakes on faults are then computed following two constraints: the magnitude frequency distribution (MFD) of earthquakes in the fault system as a whole must follow an imposed shape and the rate of earthquakes on each fault is determined by the specific slip-rate of each segment depending on the possible FtF ruptures. The modelled earthquake rates are then confronted to the available independent data (geodetical, seismological and paleoseismological data) in order to weigh different hypothesis explored in a logic tree. The methodology is tested on the Western Corinth Rift, Greece (WCR) where recent advancements have been made in the understanding of the geological slip rates of the complex network of normal faults which are accommodating the ~15 mm/yr North-South extension. Modelling results show that geological, seismological extension rates and paleoseismological rates of earthquakes cannot be reconciled with only single fault rupture scenarios and require hypothesising a large spectrum of possible FtF rupture sets. Furthermore, in order to fit the imposed regional Gutenberg-Richter MFD target, some of the slip along certain faults needs to be accommodated either with interseismic creep or as post-seismic processes. Furthermore, individual fault’s MFDs differ depending on the position of each fault in the system and the possible FtF ruptures associated with the fault. Finally, a comparison of modelled earthquake rupture rates with those deduced from the regional and local earthquake catalogue statistics and local paleosismological data indicates a better fit with the FtF rupture set constructed with a distance criteria based on a 5 km rather than 3 km, suggesting, a high connectivity of faults in the WCR fault system.

Reconciling an Early Nineteenth-Century Rupture of the Alpine Fault at a Section End, Toaroha River, Westland, New Zealand

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Robert M. Langridge ◽  
Pilar Villamor ◽  
Jamie D. Howarth ◽  
William F. Ries ◽  
Kate J. Clark ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Nineteenth Century ◽  
New Zealand ◽  
Plate Boundary ◽  
Slip Rate ◽  
Fault System ◽  
Fault Rupture ◽  
Central Section ◽  
Surface Rupture ◽  
Early Nineteenth Century ◽  
Alpine Fault

ABSTRACT The Alpine fault is a high slip-rate plate boundary fault that poses a significant seismic hazard to southern and central New Zealand. To date, the strongest paleoseismic evidence for the onshore southern and central sections indicates that the fault typically ruptures during very large (Mw≥7.7) to great “full-section” earthquakes. Three paleoseismic trenches excavated at the northeastern end of its central section at the Toaroha River (Staples site) provide new insights into its surface-rupture behavior. Paleoseismic ruptures in each trench have been dated using the best-ranked radiocarbon dating fractions, and stratigraphically and temporally correlated between each trench. The preferred timings of the four most recent earthquakes are 1813–1848, 1673–1792, 1250–1580, and ≥1084–1276 C.E. (95% confidence intervals using OxCal 4.4). These surface-rupture dates correlate well with reinterpreted timings of paleoearthquakes from previous trenches excavated nearby and with the timing of shaking-triggered turbidites in lakes along the central section of the Alpine fault. Results from these trenches indicate the most recent rupture event (MRE) in this area postdates the great 1717 C.E. Alpine fault rupture (the most recent full-section rupture of the southern and central sections). This MRE probably occurred within the early nineteenth century and is reconciled as either: (a) a “partial-section” rupture of the central section; (b) a northern section rupture that continued to the southwest; or (c) triggered slip from a Hope-Kelly fault rupture at the southwestern end of the Marlborough fault system (MFS). Although, no single scenario is currently favored, our results indicate that the behavior of the Alpine fault is more complex in the north, as the plate boundary transitions into the MFS. An important outcome is that sites or towns near fault intersections and section ends may experience strong ground motions more frequently due to locally shorter rupture recurrence intervals.

First global positioning system results in northern Myanmar: Constant and localized slip rate along the Sagaing fault

Geology ◽  
2010 ◽  
Vol 38 (7) ◽  
pp. 591-594 ◽  
Author(s):  
T. Maurin ◽  
F. Masson ◽  
C. Rangin ◽  
U. T. Min ◽  
P. Collard
Keyword(s):  
Global Positioning System ◽  
Slip Rate ◽  
Positioning System ◽  
Global Positioning

scholarly journals Extension and slip rate partitioning in NW Iran constrained by GPS measurements

2011 ◽  
Vol 1 (4) ◽  
pp. 286-304 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. Rastbood ◽  
B. Voosoghi
Keyword(s):  
Large Scale ◽  
Slip Rate ◽  
Strike Slip ◽  
Fault System ◽  
Arabian Plate ◽  
Normal Faults ◽  
Gps Data ◽  
Gps Measurements ◽  
Nw Iran ◽  
Himalayan Mountain

Extension and slip rate partitioning in NW Iran constrained by GPS measurementsConvergence of 22±2 mm yr-1 between the northward motion of the Arabian Plate relative to Eurasia at N8° ±5° E is accommodated by a combination of thrust and strike-slip faults in different parts of Iran. Dislocation modeling is used to examine the GPS data for this part of the Alpine-Himalayan mountain belt with more concentration in NW Iran. First, the vectors due to known Arabia-Eurasia rotation are reproduced by introducing structures that approximate the large-scale tectonics of the Middle East. Observed features of the smaller scale fault system are then progressively included in the model. Slip rate amplitudes and directions adjusted to fit available GPS data. Geological evidences show strike-slip and reverse-slip faulting in NW Iran, but GPS data show normal faults in this region too. By slip partitioning we propose four locations for normal faults based on extensions observed by GPS data. Slip rate values were estimated between 2 ~ 5 mm/yr for proposed normal faults. Our modeling results prove that the NW Iran is not only affected by Arabia-Eurasia collision but also contributes in the subduction motion of the South Caspian and Kura basins basement beneath the Apsheron-Balkhan sill and the Great Caucasus respectively.

scholarly journals Evolution of rift systems and their fault networks in response to surface processes

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Derek Neuharth ◽  
Sascha Brune ◽  
Thilo Wrona ◽  
Anne Glerum ◽  
Jean Braun ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Sedimentary Basins ◽  
Field Studies ◽  
Fault Analysis ◽  
Growth Patterns ◽  
Surface Processes ◽  
Fault System ◽  
Normal Faults ◽  
Continental Margins ◽  
Geodynamic Models ◽  
Fault Growth

Continental rifting is responsible for the generation of major sedimentary basins, both during rift inception and during the formation of rifted continental margins. Geophysical and field studies revealed that rifts feature complex networks of normal faults but the factors controlling fault network properties and their evolution are still matter of debate. Here, we employ high-resolution 2D geodynamic models (ASPECT) including two-way coupling to a surface processes code (FastScape) to conduct 12 models of major rift types that are exposed to various degrees of erosion and sedimentation. We further present a novel quantitative fault analysis toolbox (Fatbox), which allows us to isolate fault growth patterns, the number of faults, and their length and displacement throughout rift history. Our analysis reveals that rift fault networks may evolve through five major phases: 1) distributed deformation and coalescence, 2) fault system growth, 3) fault system decline and basinward localization, 4) rift migration, and 5) breakup. These phases can be correlated to distinct rifted margin domains. Models of asymmetric rifting suggest rift migration is facilitated through both ductile and brittle deformation within a weak exhumation channel that rotates subhorizontally and remains active at low angles. In sedimentation-starved settings, this channel satisfies the conditions for serpentinization. We find that surface processes are not only able to enhance strain localization and to increase fault longevity but that they also reduce the total length of the fault system, prolong rift phases and delay continental breakup.

Structure and segmentation of the Ovindoli – Piano di Pezza – Campo Felice fault system (Central Apennines, Italy): Evolution and reactivation of inherited faults

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Matthieu Ferry ◽  
Stéphanie Gautier ◽  
Stéphane Mazzotti ◽  
Fabio Villani ◽  
Eric Stell ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Surface Deformation ◽  
Slip Rate ◽  
Fault System ◽  
Normal Faults ◽  
Reverse Fault ◽  
Earthquake Rupture ◽  
Central Apennines ◽  
Active Deformation ◽  
Fault Surface ◽  
Cumulative Length

<p>Active deformation in the Central Apennines is mostly accommodated by NW-SE normal faults systems that produce moderate to large earthquakes at shallow depth. Recent examples include the 1915 Mw≈7 Avezzano earthquake (Fucino basin) and the 2009 Mw=6.1 L’Aquila earthquake (Aterno basin) which were both associated with major loss of life and massive damage to buildings and infrastructure. Here, we study the 40-km-long Ovindoli – Piano di Pezza – Campo Felice – Monti d’Ocre (OPCM) fault system, a major NNW-SSE system that potentially links the Fucino and the Aterno fault-systems. The OPCM exhibits linear and arcuate sections with four main segments and borders the eastern margin of the Aterno basin. Paleo-earthquake rupture data on the Piano di Pezza (PPF) and Campo Felice (CFF) faults exhibit remarkable synchronicity with the Fucino fault system, with the most recent surface-rupturing earthquake likely occurring in the XIV<sup>th</sup> century. In order to better understand the relationships between and earthquake rupture scenarios, we focus on the basin geometry and fault surface expression of the Piano di Pezza fault combining geomorphology and subsurface geophysics. We map the fault trace with unprecedented detail using terrestrial laser scanner surveys and quantify surface deformation affecting alluvial fans as well as glacial moraines. We obtain a mean vertical offset of 2.5 m +/- 0.3 m for the most recent features, well in agreement with paleoseismological data. Furthermore, we document slip distributions at different time scales along strike with a maximum value at the connection between the PPF and the OF. Beneath the scarp, geophysical data reveal a complex faulting geometry with several parallel strands and two minor blind splays. Electrical resistivity tomography images show a cumulative vertical offset of ~ 15 m affecting an interface attributed to the Last Glacial Maximum and confirm the high vertical slip across the fault zone. Gravimetric anomalies across the basin also indicate the sedimentary fill has recorded a maximum finite cumulative throw of the PdP fault system of 110-140 m. This suggests a maximum vertical slip rate of 0.2-0.3 mm/year since the Pleistocene, which contrasts with the high post-LGM slip rate estimated from trenches. Overall, our observations suggest that the arcuate PPF originally formed as a reverse fault during the Mio-Pliocene compressive stage and is now reactivated as an extensional horsetail-like feature by ruptures along a major strike-slip fault (OF). This finding points to the PPF as mostly built through ruptures along the OF leaking onto an inherited structure. The time-varying slip rates may also denote an episodic behavior marked by short periods of high seismic activity (a few centuries) and long intervals of seismic quiescence (a few millennia). Furthermore, possible earthquake rupture scenarios along the OPCM may encompass the whole OPCM fault system (cumulative length ca. 40 km) or rupture termination along the PPF (cumulative length ca. 15-20 km) with significantly different impacts over the populated Fucino and Aterno basins.</p>

scholarly journals Patterns of incision and deformation on the southern flank of the Yellowstone hotspot from terraces and topography

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Daphnee Tuzlak ◽  
Joel Pederson ◽  
Aaron Bufe ◽  
Tammy Rittenour
Keyword(s):  
Late Quaternary ◽  
Slip Rate ◽  
Snake River Plain ◽  
Fault System ◽  
Snake River ◽  
Normal Faults ◽  
Localized Deformation ◽  
Fluvial Terraces ◽  
Yellowstone Hotspot ◽  
River Plain

Understanding the dynamics of the greater Yellowstone region requires constraints on deformation spanning million year to decadal timescales, but intermediate-scale (Quaternary) records of erosion and deformation are lacking. The Upper Snake River drainage crosses from the uplifting region that encompasses the Yellowstone Plateau into the subsiding Snake River Plain and provides an opportunity to investigate a transect across the trailing margin of the hotspot. Here, we present a new chronostratigraphy of fluvial terraces along the lower Hoback and Upper Snake Rivers and measure drainage characteristics through Alpine Canyon interpreted in the context of bedrock erodibility. We attempt to evaluate whether incision is driven by uplift of the Yellowstone system, subsidence of the Snake River Plain, or individual faults along the river’s path. The Upper Snake River in our study area is incising at roughly 0.3 m/k.y. (300 m/m.y.), which is similar to estimates from drainages at the leading eastern margin of the Yellowstone system. The pattern of terrace incision, however, is not consistent with widely hypothesized headwater uplift from the hotspot but instead is consistent with downstream baselevel fall as well as localized deformation along normal faults. Both the Astoria and Hoback faults are documented as active in the late Quaternary, and an offset terrace indicates a slip rate of 0.25−0.5 m/k.y. (250−500 m/m.y.) for the Hoback fault. Although tributary channel steepness corresponds with bedrock strength, patterns of χ across divides support baselevel fall to the west. Subsidence of the Snake River Plain may be a source of this baselevel fall, but we suggest that the closer Grand Valley fault system could be more active than previously thought.

scholarly journals GPS-BASED MONITORING OF CRUSTAL DEFORMATION IN GARHWAL-KUMAUN HIMALAYA

2018 ◽  
Vol XLII-5 ◽  
pp. 451-454 ◽  
Author(s):  
Y. Sharma ◽  
S. Pasari ◽  
O. Dikshit ◽  
K. E. Ching
Keyword(s):  
Global Positioning System ◽  
Crustal Deformation ◽  
Slip Rate ◽  
Tectonic Activity ◽  
Slip Rates ◽  
Study Region ◽  
Kumaun Himalaya ◽  
Global Positioning ◽  
Himalayan Mountain ◽  
Fixed Reference

<p><strong>Abstract.</strong> The Himalayan region has experienced a number of large magnitude earthquakes in the past. Seismicity is mainly due to tectonic activity along the thrust faults that trend parallel to the Himalayan mountain belt. In order to study the ongoing tectonic process, we report Global Positioning System (GPS) measurements of crustal deformation in the Garhwal-Kumaun Himalaya through two continuous and 21 campaign stations. We collect GPS data since 2013 and analyze with the GAMIT/GLOBK suite of postprocessing software. Our estimated surface velocities in ITRF2008, India-fixed, and Eurasia-fixed reference frame lie in the range of 42&amp;ndash;52<span class="thinspace"></span>mm/yr, 1&amp;ndash;6<span class="thinspace"></span>mm/yr, and 31&amp;ndash;37<span class="thinspace"></span>mm/yr, respectively. We observe insignificant slip rate (&amp;sim;<span class="thinspace"></span>1<span class="thinspace"></span>mm/yr) of HFT that indicates its locking behavior. The slip rates of MBT and MCT, however, are consistent with the seismic activity of the study region.</p>

Determination of Slip-Rate by Optical Dating of Lake Bed Sediments from the Dasht-E-Bayaz Fault, Ne Iran

2015 ◽  
Vol 42 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Morteza Fattahi ◽  
Richard Walker ◽  
Mohammad M. Khatib ◽  
Mohammad Zarrinkoub ◽  
Morteza Talebian
Keyword(s):  
Flat Surface ◽  
Slip Rate ◽  
Central Section ◽  
Bed Sediments ◽  
The Holocene ◽  
Small Streams ◽  
Dry Lake ◽  
Fault Trace ◽  
Western Half

Abstract The Dasht-e-Bayaz left-lateral strike-slip fault in northeastern Iran ruptured in two destructive earthquakes in 1968 and 1979. The western half of the Dasht-e-Bayaz fault cuts across the dry lake-bed in the Nimbluk valley and has no measurable relief except for at a few localised jogs in the fault trace. We provide the first quantitative constraint on the slip-rate of the Dasht-e-Bayaz fault averaged over the Holocene. The western part of the fault cuts across the Nimbluk valley; the flat surface of which is composed of lake-bed sediments. Small streams cut into the surface of the lake-beds are displaced across the fault by 26 ± 2 m. Two OSL samples of the lake-bed sediments are success-fully dated at 8.6 ± 0.6 and 8.5 ± 1.0 ka, from which we calculate a minimum slip-rate of 2.6 mm/yr. This minimum slip rate remains constant with the previously proposed Holocene slip rate of 2.5 mm/yr and within the range of the Holocene slip rate of 2.4 ± 0.3 mm/yr estimated before on the central section of the Doruneh fault.

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