Geodynamic processes in subduction zones and interpretation of grace measurement data

Abstract

The paper discusses the results of studies of the process of preparing catastrophic earthquakes in the subduction zone in combination with the interpretation of measurement data from the GRACE space system (CS) regarding these zones. An analysis of digital maps of gravity anomalies in the form of the spatial distribution of the EWH parameter relative to the corresponding focal areas of the strongest subduction earthquakes that occurred over the past 20 years was performed. It is shown using examples of studying the strongest earthquakes in subduction zones that GRACE CS measurement data can serve as the basis for assessing the stress-strain state of the geoenvironment. At the same time these data make it possible to increase the accuracy and reliability of solving prognostic problems. In particular the productivity of the trigger and barycenter concepts has been confirmed in relation to the identified features of the strongest earthquakes.