Seismic zoning of the southern slope of Greater Caucasus from the fractal parameters of the earthquakes, stress state, and GPS velocities

Researchers have identified four distinct seismic zones—Balaken-Zagatala, Sheki-Gabala, Shamakhy-Ismailly, and Absheron—along the southern slope of the Greater Caucasus using a novel method combining GPS velocities, earthquake seismicity, fractal dimensions of epicenters, focal mechanisms, and crustal stress analysis. This approach provides a criterion for seismotectonic zoning and offers a tool for assessing seismic hazards in collision zones. The study highlights the potential of integrating multiple geophysical datasets to improve seismic risk evaluation in complex tectonic regions.

Kadirov, F. A., Gadirov, A. G., Babayev, G. R., Agayeva, S. T., Mammadov, S. K., Garagezova, N. R., & Safarov, R. T. (2013). Seismic zoning of the southern slope of Greater Caucasus from the fractal parameters of the earthquakes, stress state, and GPS velocities. Izvestiya, Physics of the Solid Earth, 49(4), 554–562. https://doi.org/10.1134/s1069351313040046