Rapid report of June 1, 2022 MW 5.9 Lushan earthquake, China with geodetic and teleseismic data

Abstract

Timely response to earthquake characterization can facilitate earthquake emergency rescue and further scientific investigations. On June 1, 2022, MW 5.9 earthquake occurred in the southern area of the Longmenshan fault zone. This event also happened at the south end of the Dayi seismic gap and is the largest earthquake that has occurred in this seismic gap since the 1970 M 6.2 event. The slip-distribution model constrained by the seismic waveforms suggests a thrust-dominated faulting mechanism. The main slip occurs at a depth of ∼14 ​km, and the cumulative energy is released in the first 6 ​s. The variations of Coulomb stress caused by the mainshock show a positive change in the southwest area of the Dayi seismic gap, indicating possible activation of future earthquakes. In addition, we emphasize the importance of rapid estimation of deformation for near-field hazard delineation, especially when interferometric radar fails to image coseismic deformation in a high relief terrain.

Keywords

• Lushan earthquake
• Near real-time deformation estimates
• Rupture model
• Dayi seismic gap