Seismology
Articles tagged with Seismology
New models reconstruct fault movement of the 2025 Kamchatka earthquake
New models reconstruct the movement of faults during the 8.8 magnitude Kamchatka earthquake, revealing limited shallow rupture and affecting tsunami risk. The study provides valuable insights into predicting giant earthquakes and protecting coastal communities.
Atlantic island narrowly escaped ‘stealthy’ eruption
Researchers discovered a massive magma intrusion on São Jorge Island in the Azores, which stalled just 1.6km below the surface, avoiding an eruption. The study used seismometers and satellite data to reconstruct the underground movement of magma, revealing how it rose through a main fault system.
New insights into how earthquakes stop
Researchers at Kyoto University discovered a previously unrecognized feature in near-fault seismic records of large earthquakes: a distinct stopping phase. This phase represents a systematic signal associated with the termination of rupture, demonstrating that many near-field recordings contain this coherent stopping phase.
in Eastern Africa, the cradle of humankind is tearing apart
The study found that the Turkana Rift has been significantly thinned, with the crust about 13 kilometers thick, compared to over 35 kilometers farther from the rift. This thinning is a sign of a process called 'necking' where the crust stretches and becomes weaker, promoting continued rifting.
Surface-draped fiber captured plane’s flight details at nevada airfield
The study demonstrates the potential for rapid deployment of fiber optic cable and Distributed Acoustic Sensing in environments where burying the cable isn't feasible, capturing aircraft speed and maneuvering.
Combining seismic and space data to detect calving in Greenland glaciers
Researchers use global seismic networks and satellite observations to detect calving tidewater glaciers in Greenland. Large ice loss events are becoming more frequent, making it essential to understand their frequency, location, and factors leading to calving.
Whales go quiet during noisy underwater surveys
Researchers found that fin whale calls dropped dramatically during seismic surveying off northwestern Spain, with a 70% decrease in calls across three sites. The study highlights the potential impacts of seismic surveys on whale communication, energy expenditure, and habitat use.
Rock bonding changes understanding of earthquakes mechanics
Global map shows deep mantle deformation is linked to subducted slabsbducted Slabs
A new study has confirmed that much of the deep mantle deformation occurs where researchers suspect there may be deeply subducted tectonic slabs. The research used an unprecedented database of over 16 million seismograms to analyze seismic anisotropy and provide a global map of the phenomenon.
Dan M. Frangopol earns repeat ASCE honor for bridge resilience research
Frangopol and his team develop a framework to optimize seismic retrofit strategies for deteriorating bridge columns, balancing risk and cost. The approach integrates time-dependent risk assessment, economic evaluation, and real options analysis to identify optimal intervention timing under uncertainty.
Using ‘imaginative’ AI to survey past and future earthquake damage
Researchers developed an AI model to create highly photorealistic 3D reconstructions of ground-level damage after earthquakes. The LoRA-Enhanced Ground-view Generation diffusion model can recognize complex visual patterns and predict where structures may be damaged, even in densely populated urban areas.
Imaging the Moon’s interior with fiber-optics
Using Distributed Acoustic Sensing technology, scientists deployed fibre-optic cables across the lunar surface to detect seismic waves generated by moonquakes, meteorites, and landings. The cables can record signals at a higher spatial resolution than traditional seismic networks.
Earthquake scientists reveal how overplowing weakens soil at experimental farm
Researchers found that tilling and compaction disrupt intricate capillary networks within the soil, causing it to pool rainwater and form a muddy crust. The study provides a clear explanation for why tillage changes the structure of soil in ways that affect water retention.
Stress-testing the Cascadia Subduction Zone reveals variability that could impact how earthquakes spread
Researchers found the Cascadia Subduction Zone to be more active than previously thought, with signs of shallow earthquakes and fluid flow detected offshore. The study suggests variable fluid pathways could alter the behavior of large earthquakes on the fault, potentially influencing the severity of future events.
Revealing deformation mechanisms of the mineral antigorite in subduction zones
Deformation mechanisms of serpentinite, a key research target for understanding plate boundaries, have been investigated. Grain boundary sliding dominates deformation, producing 'B-type' CPO patterns, which contribute to seismic activity and earthquakes.
Understanding the hazard potential of the Seattle Fault zone: It’s “pretty close to home”
A new study investigates the dynamics of a complex fault zone under Seattle, revealing that secondary faults rupture more frequently than previously thought. Researchers hope to refine their understanding of these faults and determine how much hazard they pose to Seattle's four million residents.
Study highlights stressed faults in potential shale gas region in South Africa
A critically stressed fault has been identified in the Karoo Basin, which could be perturbed by potential shale gas exploration. The researchers used data from geophones and previously collected geophysical data to characterize and interpret the seismicity in the area.
Eduardo Miranda awarded 2026 Bruce Bolt Medal
Eduardo Miranda, a Stanford University professor, has been recognized for his pioneering work in developing new ground motion models and intensity measures. His research has significantly shaped seismic design provisions and emphasized the use of strong-motion data in both research and teaching.
A promising new method for early warning of volcanic eruptions
Researchers have developed a new detection method called 'Jerk' that can identify extremely subtle ground movements as precursors of volcanic eruptions. The method was tested at a volcano observatory on La Réunion island and predicted 92% of eruptions between 2014 and 2023, with warning times ranging from minutes to hours.
Scientists devise way to track space junk as it falls to earth
Researchers use seismic data to pinpoint the trajectory of falling debris, providing near-real-time tracking and rapid retrievals. This innovation complements radar data and can help locate potential crash sites, retrieve hazardous objects, and mitigate environmental risks.
Analyzing submerged fault structures to predict future earthquakes in Türkiye
A new 3D model of the fault beneath the Marmara Sea reveals where a future major earthquake could take place, helping improve earthquake forecasts. The study uses magnetotelluric measurements to identify distinct high-resistivity and low-resistivity zones, shedding light on ongoing processes of fault mechanics.
Tiny earthquakes reveal hidden faults under Northern California
Researchers tracked tiny earthquakes to better understand the complex region where the San Andreas fault meets the Cascadia subduction zone. The study reveals five moving pieces, including two out of sight from the Earth's surface, which contribute to the seismic hazard.
Seafloor study reveals one reason why Japan's 2011 earthquake turned deadly
A new seafloor study revealed that a thin, clay-rich layer hidden beneath the seafloor enabled the 2011 Japan earthquake to rupture all the way to the trench, producing massive displacement. This finding could help scientists better understand and respond to other intense earthquakes and tsunamis.
Ruth Harris honored with SSA Distinguished Service Award
Ruth Harris has made outstanding contributions to the Seismological Society of America through her drive to create student presentation awards and support open access options. Her active participation in numerous committees has benefited nearly every SSA committee.
Milner honored with Charles F. Richter Early Career Award
Kevin Milner, a research geophysicist at the USGS Geologic Hazards Science Center, has been awarded the Seismological Society of America's Charles F. Richter Early Career Award for his innovative work in seismic hazard analysis modeling and earthquake forecasting.
Lisa Wald honored by SSA for creating USGS Earthquake Information “Hub”
Lisa Wald, a renowned USGS scientist, has been honored by the Seismological Society of America for creating the Earthquake Hazards Program's information hub. Her groundbreaking work made a wealth of earthquake information accessible to everyone, from the general public to seismologists and governments.
2026 Seismological Society of America Annual Meeting
The SSA will hold its annual meeting in Pasadena, California, featuring 53 technical sessions on topics such as earthquake early warning, seismic swarms, and nuclear explosion forensics. Working journalists can register to attend at no charge, gaining full access to presentations, poster sessions, and plenary talks.
Hidden clay intensified 2011 Japan megaquake, study confirms
Researchers confirm that a 30-meter-thick layer of soft and slippery pelagic clay at the Japan Trench enabled the earthquake to rupture all the way to the trench, producing a massive tsunami. The discovery sheds new light on why the 2011 earthquake behaved so differently from predicted models.
Eastward earthquake rupture progression along the Main Marmara Fault towards Istanbul
A recent Science study analyzing seismic data reveals a series of eastward-propagating M>5 events along the Main Marmara Fault over the last ~15 years. This finding highlights the need for continuous monitoring to assess the potential impact of a large quake on Istanbul's 18 million inhabitants.
Satellite data helps UNM researchers map massive rupture of 2025 Myanmar earthquake
Researchers used satellite data to study the 2025 Myanmar earthquake, which struck along a geologically 'mature' fault. The study found that the energy released by the earthquake was highly focused and came right to the surface, potentially leading to more intense ground shaking near the fault line.
The Iberian Peninsula is rotating clockwise according to new geodynamic data
New research using earthquake and satellite data reveals the Iberian Peninsula is rotating clockwise due to collision between Eurasia and Africa plates. The study provides insights into geodynamic processes and deformation fields in the region.
Francisco José Sánchez-Sesma selected as 2026 Joyner Lecturer
Sánz-Sesma's work on seismic wave propagation has made a significant impact on seismic hazard assessment and earthquake engineering. His research integrates theoretical rigor, numerical modeling, and empirical observation to advance our understanding of seismic wave phenomena.
Study searches for landslide clues in seismic signals from Alaska’s Barry arm
Researchers studying seismic signals from Alaska's Prince William Sound have identified unusual impulsive events that increase in rate from summer to winter, before coming to an abrupt halt. These events may be linked to water freezing and thawing within rock cracks beneath nearby Cascade Glacier.
AI quake tools forecast aftershock risk in seconds, study shows
Researchers have developed AI-powered forecasting tools that can predict the risk of aftershocks within seconds of an initial earthquake, offering a significant improvement over current methods. The new models trained on global earthquake data demonstrate comparable accuracy to existing systems while providing near real-time results.
Hidden process behind 2025 Santorini earthquakes uncovered
A team of researchers has identified a new mechanism behind the 2025 Santorini earthquakes, finding that magma intrusion waves triggered the seismic unrest. The study used advanced machine learning techniques to analyze ground vibrations recorded by seismometers and inferred the movement of pressurized magma with unprecedented detail.
Rocks on faults can heal following seismic movement
Researchers at the University of California, Davis, found that rocks on fault lines can glue themselves back together within hours after a seismic event. This discovery challenges current models of fault behavior and suggests that cohesion may play a crucial role in major earthquakes.
Seismic data can identify aircraft by type
Researchers at University of Alaska Fairbanks used seismic data to identify aircraft types by analyzing frequency imprints from sound waves. The method involves removing Doppler effect and creating a frequency comb, which is then matched with a catalog of aircraft frequency patterns.
Can AI help us predict earthquakes?
Machine learning models detected subtle signals that emerge just before the onset of laboratory earthquakes. The key predictive factor is the evolution of shear stress on creeping regions of the fault.
SRL welcomes first Deputy Editor-in-Chief
Hongfeng Yang has been appointed as the first deputy editor-in-chief of Seismological Research Letters (SRL), a journal published by the Seismological Society of America. Yang brings over a decade of editorial experience and fresh ideas to promote SRL's growth.
Seismic sensors used to identify types of aircraft flying over Alaska
Researchers used seismic sensors to identify the type of aircraft flying over Alaska, determining flight parameters and source frequencies. The study collected data from hundreds of flights, distinguishing between piston, turboprop, jet, and helicopter aircraft.
Monitoring hidden processes beneath Kīlauea could aid eruption forecast
Researchers found that Kīlauea's magma system started behaving anomalously about a year before the 2018 eruption, suggesting a blockage formed between the volcano's summit magma reservoirs. Continuous monitoring data accumulated, gaining insights into Kīlauea's inner workings and its long-term behavior.
Climate’s impact on earthquakes
Climate changes in Lake Turkana influenced fault activity and magma production, rewriting the story of human evolution. Researchers found that lower lake levels led to increased melting and faulting, with potential implications for future volcanic and tectonic activity in East Africa.
Tulane researchers uncover why breaking up is hard for some continents
Tulane researchers discovered that an area of the African tectonic plate, previously thought to be weak, is now resisting deformation due to dehydration 80 million years ago. This process strengthened the plate and made it more resistant to future breakup.
Myanmar fault had ideal geometry to produce 2025 supershear earthquake
A recent study published in Science reveals that Myanmar's Sagaing Fault produced a supershear earthquake with speeds up to five kilometers per second, causing widespread destruction. The researchers attribute this phenomenon to the fault's ideal geometry and contrasting rock properties.
Turning smartphones into earthquake sensors
Citizens' smartphones can be used to create highly detailed site amplification maps, providing critical input for seismic hazard assessment and supporting earthquake emergency response. The new approach, based on the Earthquake Network initiative, aggregates thousands of measurements to yield reliable high-resolution amplification maps.
Seismology meets botany: Utah geologist applies vibration science to saguaros
A University of Utah geologist used earthquake-monitoring tools to analyze how towering saguaro cacti respond to wind and ground motion without harm. The study found that saguaros' resonance frequencies vary widely across their height, with stiffness near the bottom and flexibility at the top.
Understanding volcanoes better
Scientists have detected tremor signals at the Oldoinyo Lengai volcano in Tanzania, revealing details about magma movement and volcanic activity. The findings provide valuable insights into the dynamics of magma movement and offer a step forward for volcano seismology.
Twin threat: Cascadia and San Andreas faults may be seismically linked
Researchers found similarities in timing and structure of turbidite layers in cores from both fault systems, suggesting seismic synchronization between Cascadia and San Andreas faults. The study, led by Chris Goldfinger, suggests that earthquakes on one fault could draw down resources across the country.
Machine learning sharpens earthquake risk assessment maps for Tokyo
Researchers created a high-resolution 3D liquefaction hazard map using machine learning and geotechnical data. The model accurately predicted soil properties and liquefaction risk, identifying high-risk areas in reclaimed coastal zones and river floodplains with unprecedented clarity and precision.
Researchers discover mechanism that can ramp up magnitude of certain earthquakes
A recently discovered chain of events in a Chilean earthquake was found to have supercharged its strength, breaching temperatures above 650 degrees Celsius and leading to increased shaking. The study's findings have implications for future earthquake hazard assessments and could support emergency response and long-term planning.
Magma displacement triggered tens of thousands of earthquakes
An earthquake swarm in Santorini was triggered by magma displacement, generating over 28,000 recorded earthquakes. The study reveals the chain of events that led to this seismic activity, including a hydraulic connection between two volcanoes.
MIT geologists discover where energy goes during an earthquake
Researchers at MIT have traced the energy released by 'lab quakes' and found that 80% of a quake's energy goes into heating up the region around the epicenter, while only 10% causes physical shaking. The study's findings could help seismologists predict earthquake vulnerability in regions prone to seismic events.
Hear that? Mizzou researchers are ‘listening’ to molecules in supersonic conditions
Mizzou researchers have discovered a way to 'listen' to molecules moving faster than the speed of sound, using photoacoustic spectroscopy. This technique could help unravel mysteries of astrochemistry and offer clues about the universe's composition, star formation, and life origins.
Shake It Off – Scientists harness Taylor Swift concert to measure seismic activity and boost science engagement
Researchers used a Taylor Swift concert as a unique opportunity to study seismic activity and engage the public in science. The 'SwiftQuake' was detected more than 100km away from the stadium, showcasing how cultural events can enhance scientific understanding.
Scientists tune in to the surf’s hidden signals
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have characterized low-frequency signals from breaking ocean waves, which can be used to monitor sea conditions. The team developed a method for identifying the acoustic and seismic signatures of breaking waves and located their sources along the coast.
Why seismic waves are slower for shortly after an earthquake
Researchers have made a breakthrough in understanding post-seismic velocity changes by studying the effects of friction at grain contacts. The team found that contact sliding and aging are responsible for these time-dependent changes in wave velocities.
Mars’s interior more like Rocky Road than Millionaire’s Shortbread, scientists find
New research finds Mars' mantle preserves a record of its violent beginnings, with chunky layers containing ancient fragments up to 4km wide. This discovery offers a rare glimpse into the evolution of rocky planets and challenges current understanding of planetary formation.
Reconstruction of a record-breaking earthquake
The magnitude 7.7 Myanmar earthquake had the highest recorded rupture velocity, exceeding 5.3 km/s, a phenomenon known as supershear propagation. This was confirmed by analysis of satellite images and seismic station recordings.
Years after an earthquake, rivers still carry the mountains downstream
Researchers found that the sediment surge after the Wenchuan Earthquake led to a significant increase in bedload flux, accounting for 65% of the overall sediment flowing through the river. The elevated flux persisted for at least ten years, with no evidence of declining back to background levels.