Abstract
We focused our study to characterize the geometry and activity of Gorontalo fault. We analysed reviewed the ISC seismic catalogue and the BMKG relocated earthquake events available for the time period of 1960 to 2021, located along the expected location of this fault. In addition, we analysed continuous record from local seismic observatory available for the same period. Further, we mapped the lineaments using 8.3-m resolution DEMNAS data. Tens on shallow earthquakes occurred in the vicinity of this fault with a range magnitude of M 2 to 3. Our lineament analysis however does not reveal distinctive pattern that may indicate the fault manifestation at the surface. The NW-SE trending lineaments are coincidence with the mapped trace of Gorontalo Fault. The weak surface manifestation of the fault scarp may be related to the tropical climatic condition of the area which may obliterate the faulting topography. However, we observed alignment of the seismicity distribution with the mapped NW-SE lineament, indicating that the lineament is likely representing active fault and these earthquakes are associated with faulting along this fault. Our study provide indication that the Gorontalo Fault is active and further study is necessary to investigate subsurface geometry and mitigate its seismic hazards.
Highlights
1.1 BackgroundGorontalo lies on the northern arm of Celebes Island known as Minahasa Peninsula
We interpreted the NW-SE trending major lineament representing the active trace of the Gorontalo fault zone represented by tens shallow earthquake occurred along
The limitation of the surface manifestation of the fault scarp may be related to the tropical climatic condition of the area which may obliterate the faulting topography
Summary
Gorontalo lies on the northern arm of Celebes Island known as Minahasa Peninsula. This region is located in an active tectonic region, as a result of convergence of Eurasian, Pacific and Australian plates. There were destructive events felt throughout Gorontalo area in 1939 and 1941, the hypocentre location of these earthquakes was unknown and it is unclear whether they were originated from an inland fault or from the subduction. There are several known active faults near the city of Gorontalo (716,603 inhabitants), exposing the community to earthquake hazards. Difficulties of characterizing the Gorontalo Fault is possibly because of the lack of detailed seismic monitoring data and diffused
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