Scientists have noticed strange signals from the depths of the Earth: the San Andreas Fault, commonly known as Parkfield, has long attracted the attention of scientists for its seismic activity.
This information was reported by the Live Science resource, reports URA-Inform.
What's wrong with the fault?
It is known to be cyclical, causing earthquakes approximately every 22 years. However, recent observations by scientists indicate that it is again beginning to show signals of instability, which may herald an increase in seismic activity. Scientists note that the last earthquake on this fault occurred in 2004, and given the average time interval between earthquakes, it can be assumed that a new event is approaching. The study has identified certain signals that may serve as harbingers of future seismic events.
Unusual Fact
What is interesting, however, is that in this region of the fault the signal is not the same active as in past periods of activity, which confuses scientists. They admit that they do not fully understand what could cause such changes in seismic activity.
Luca Malagnini, one of the lead researchers at Italy's National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology, notes that differences in signals could indicate that the earthquake may not occur immediately, or it may have a different epicenter location compared to previous cases. That is why many have come to the conclusion that scientists have noticed strange signals from the depths of the Earth.
Geography
The San Andreas Fault, which separates the Pacific and North American tectonic plates, is a key factor in the geodynamics of this region. For example, south of Parkfield the fault is unblocked, meaning the plates are not moving relative to each other. At the same time, in the north of the city, the fault moves freely, and the plates move towards each other at a speed of 3.6 centimeters per year.
Another feature
Scientists have discovered that the fault is a transition zone between these two states. When a fault becomes active, an earthquake measuring approximately 6 on the Richter scale occurs. Although these earthquakes rarely threaten life or property due to their distance, they can affect stress on nearby faults.
Today, scientists are actively studying the fault, hoping to identify signals that may foreshadow future earthquakes. If we can detect these precursors, this will make it possible to more effectively prepare for potential seismic events and protect the population from their possible consequences.
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