The deep origin of ground fissures in the Kenya Rift Valley

Ground fissures in the Kenya Rift Valley, part of the UNESCO-listed Lake System, originate from deep rock fractures linked to mantle-derived gases, revealing a previously unknown connection between active rifting and volcanic processes. Researchers analyzed 22 fissures in the Kedong Basin using field investigations, trenching, geophysical exploration, and gas sampling, identifying methane and sulfur dioxide emissions with elevated helium isotope ratios (³He/⁴He). These findings indicate that the fissures extend deep into the bedrock, driven by tectonic activity and volcanism. The study highlights the potential hazards to infrastructure and communities while providing critical insights for safer urban planning in this dynamic geological region.

Jia, Z., Wu, H., Peng, J., Lu, Q., Huang, W., Liu, C., Wang, F., Liu, Y., & He, M. (2023). The deep origin of ground fissures in the Kenya Rift Valley. Scientific Reports, 13(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-30918-z