Geodetic evidence for shallow creep along the Quito fault, Ecuador

Research reveals that the Quito fault, located beneath Ecuador's capital city of Quito, exhibits shallow creep, particularly along its central 20-kilometer segment. This finding, derived from GPS data and PS-InSAR analysis, indicates that horizontal shortening across the fault system is accommodating strain at a rate of 3–5 millimeters per year. The study also identifies a transient deformation event on a secondary thrust east of the main fault between 1995 and 1997. By analyzing interseismic moment deficit buildup and seismicity rates, the researchers estimate that the recurrence time for magnitude 6.5+ earthquakes in this region ranges from 200 to 1200 years. This study underscores the significant seismic hazard posed by the Quito fault, particularly due to its proximity to a densely populated urban area with poor building construction quality.

Mariniere, J., Nocquet, J.-M., Beauval, C., Champenois, J., Audin, L., Alvarado, A., Baize, S., & Socquet, A. (2019). Geodetic evidence for shallow creep along the Quito fault, Ecuador. Geophysical Journal International, 220(3), 2039–2055. https://doi.org/10.1093/gji/ggz564