Re: Earthquake swarm south of Noatak
Hello Alex - The official word on these earthquakes comes from the Alaska Earthquake Center (http://www.aeic.alaska.edu/ ) They report that based on fault-source mechanisms, these earthquakes are occurring on normal faults with a west-northwest strike. Current geologic understanding of the area includes older faults, but no active faults with surface expression. Efforts to detect surface expression are hampered by swampy terrain and limited bedrock exposure. If these earthquakes had a volcanic origin, we would expect fault measurements consistent with intrusion. Instead, we see normal faulting, suggesting tension. Tectonic origins (not volcanic) are the most likely cause. Hope this is helpful, Cheryl Cameron -------- Alex Gimarc wrote: Howdy - I see from your maps that there three volcanic fields, mostly basalt, cinder cones and maars some 90 mi south of Noatak. Recent activity is dated at less than the last 10k years. Was the recent earthquake swarm reported over the last few months related to magma movements? If so, where? If not, where are the known fault lines, and if there are none, what do you guys think is going on? Many thanks for your time. Cheers - -- Cheryl Cameron Geologist, Alaska Volcano Observatory Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys voice: 907-451-5012 fax: 907-451-5050
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cheryl.cameron@alaska.gov