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Seismic sequences in Greece interpreted in terms of barrier model

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Abstract

Between 1978 and 1981, five shallow main shocks occurred in Greece and the surrounding region. Here we consider the space–time distribution of the foreshocks and the aftershocks of these earthquakes by interpreting the migration characteristics of the epicentres in terms of the barrier model1. This model suggests that segmented ruptures can occur in a seismic fault but that the rupture front may be stopped by a barrier, or may propagate over the whole fault plane leaving the barrier unbroken. These unbroken barriers result in aftershocks due to the concentration of stress there, and cause migration of major events along a plate boundary. This migration may be an important factor for the prediction of earthquakes.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Geophysical Laboratory, University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece

    G. F. Karakaisis, B. G. Karacostas, E. E. Papadimitriou, E. M. Scordilis & B. C. Papazachos

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  1. G. F. Karakaisis
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  2. B. G. Karacostas
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  3. E. E. Papadimitriou
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  4. E. M. Scordilis
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  5. B. C. Papazachos
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Karakaisis, G., Karacostas, B., Papadimitriou, E. et al. Seismic sequences in Greece interpreted in terms of barrier model. Nature 315, 212–214 (1985). https://doi.org/10.1038/315212a0

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