Extract and analysis of surface deformation caused by Mengyuan earthquake in Qinghai using ascending and descending tracks D-InSAR technology

Abstract

Precision in uncovering the seismic source mechanism and conducting a thorough monitoring of deformation characteristics resulting from surface rupture is of paramount importance for geological comprehension, disaster management, and emergency response. This study employs both ascending and descending orbit Sentinel-1 data to capture the horizontal and vertical deformation traits of the Ms6.9 earthquake in Menyuan, Qinghai, on January 8, 2022, consequently exposing its seismogenic structure. The research outcomes suggest: the Menyuan earthquake generated an elliptical deformation zone measuring 30 × 20 km, with the maximum line-of-sight seismic displacement reaching 6.8 cm. And then, the vertical deformation field exhibited a range between -0.28 m and 0.42 m, while the horizontal deformation field ranged from -0.89 m to 0.94 m. This indicates that the earthquake's deformation is primarily oriented in the east-west direction. The left plate exhibited an upward trend with a NWW orientation, while the right plate displayed a downward trend with a SEE orientation, suggesting that the Menyuan earthquake can be classified as a "NWW-SEE" type. Furthermore, the seismic epicenter of this earthquake was predominantly concentrated in the western segment of the Lenglongling Fault. Two powerful earthquakes sequentially struck along this fault zone, intensifying the imperative for seismic geological research in the region. Additionally, this instance can serve as a benchmark for monitoring deformations and elucidating the seismic source mechanism in earthquakes with comparable seismogenic structures.