The Contemporary Seismic Deficit in the Kuril–Kamchatka Subduction Zone

Abstract

Based on an analysis of seismicity for the period of 1900–2018, the seismic potential of the Kuril–Kamchatka subduction zone is estimated, and the geometry of interplate coupling of the North American and Pacific lithospheric plates and the rate of seismic underthrusting of the latter beneath the former are specified. In order to identify areas of modern seismic deficits in the subduction zone, an approach based on the cumulative displacement of interplate earthquakes with Mw ≥ 7.0 is proposed. Together with other methods, such an approach contributes to a more accurate seismic hazard assessment of the region.