Seismic Precursors Assessment Through Geophysical Parameters Anomalies Recognition In Time Series Satellite Data

Abstract

Summary The mechanical processes of earthquake preparation are always accompanied by deformations associated with complex precursory phenomena. Satellite time-series data, coupled with ground based observations where available, can enable scientists to survey pre-earthquake signals in the areas of strong tectonic activity. Cumulative stress energy in active geotectonic regions manifests various earthquakes’ precursors. Space-time anomalies of Earth’s emitted radiation (thermal infrared in spectral range measured from satellite months to weeks before the occurrence of earthquakes, radon in underground water and soil, etc.), and electromagnetic anomalies are considered as pre-seismic signals. This paper is focused on observations made using time series MODIS Terra/Aqua and NOAA-AVHRR satellite data for derived multi-parameters land surface temperature (LST), outgoing long-wave radiation (OLR), and mean air temperature (AT) for some seismic events recorded in Vrancea region in Romania, which is one of the most active intracontinental seismic areas in Europe. Starting with almost one week prior to a moderate or strong earthquake a transient thermal infrared rise in LST of several Celsius degrees (oC) and the increased OLR values higher than the normal have been recorded around epicentral areas, function of the magnitude and focal depth, which disappeared after the main shock.