A Seismotectonic Zonation Map of Eastern Siberia: New Principles and Methods of Mapping

L. P. Imaeva¹, V. S. Imaev^1,2, O. P. Smekalin¹, N. N. Grib³

¹Institute of the Earth’s Crust, Siberian Branch of RAS, Irkutsk, Russia.
²Diamond and Precious Metals Geology Institute, Siberian Branch of RAS, Yakutsk, Russia.
³Technical Institute (Branch) of North-Eastern Federal University, Neryungri, Russia.

DOI: 10.4236/ojer.2015.44011                

Abstract

The paper reviews goals and objectives, stages and components of a seismotectonic study conducted in Eastern Siberia, Russia. Based on a comprehensive analysis of geological and geophysical data, our study establishes whether the local earthquakes are of tectonic origin and reveals relationships among earthquakes with recent geodynamic processes in the area under study. Seismic hazard assessment and evaluation of tectonic processes are the two major closely interrelated aspects of seismotectonic studies. A seismotectonic study is generally combined with a seismic study and conducted prior to the stage of detailed seismic zonation (DSZ) which is followed by seismic micro-zonation (SMZ). In three stages of the seismotectonic study, we analyze specific geological structures, reveal the regional dynamics of seismotectonic processes, clarify details of potential seismic hazard locations and identify sites of the potential instantaneous deformation of the crust which may take place due to active faulting. Based on results of our longterm studies, a seismotectonic zonation map of Eastern Siberia is compiled. The paper briefly reviews the methods of mapping and refers to data on active faults and neotectonic structures revealed in the area under study, which are closely related to regional earthquake sources.

Keywords

Seismotectonic Studies, Seismic Hazard, Active Faults, Geological and Geomorphological Methods, Trenching, Seismic Source Zones, Seismic Belts, Seismic Belt Segments, Seismotectonic Zonation Map of Eastern Siberia

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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