Generating a seismogenic source zone model for the Pyrenees: A GIS-assisted triclustering approach

Abstract

Seismogenic source zone models, including the delineation and the characterization, still have a role to play in seismic hazard calculations, particularly in regions with moderate or low to moderate seismicity. Seismic source zones establish areas with common tectonic and seismic characteristics, described by a unique magnitude–frequency distribution. Their definition can be addressed from different views. Traditionally, the source zones have been geographically outlined from seismotectonic, geological structures, and earthquake catalogs. Geographic information systems (GIS) can be of great help in their definition, as they deal rigorously and less ambiguously with the available geographical data. Moreover, novel computer science approaches are now being employed in their definition. The Pyrenees mountain range – in southwest Europe – is located in a region characterized by low to moderate seismicity. In this study, a method based purely on seismic catalogs, managed with a GIS and a triclustering algorithm, were used to delineate seismogenic zones in the Pyrenees. Based on an updated, reviewed, declustered, extensive, and homogeneous earthquake catalog (including detailed information about each event such as date and time, hypocentral location, and size), a triclustering algorithm has been applied to generate the seismogenic zones. The method seeks seismicity patterns in a quasi-objective manner following an initial assessment as to the best suited seismic parameters. The eight zones identified as part of this study are represented on maps to be analyzed, being the zone covered by the Arudy–Arette region to Bagnères de Bigorre as the one with the highest seismic hazard potential.