Applying Geostatistics to Understand Seismic Activity Patterns in the Northern Red Sea Boundary Zone

Abstract

A comprehensive geostatistical analysis was conducted on a dataset comprising 24,321 seismic events in the Red Sea region, spanning from 1997 to 2020. This analysis involved the creation of a new seismic activity database, incorporating data from both Egyptian and Saudi Seismic Networks. This enriched database provided a robust foundation for a detailed examination of the seismic patterns and activities in the region. Utilizing geographic information systems and various spatial analytic methods, it identifies seismic patterns and tectonic influences. The findings reveal significant seismic clustering along the Central Red Sea axis, indicative of active rifting between the Nubian and Arabian plates. The study demonstrates spatial autocorrelation in seismic activities, with high-high clusters marking zones of elevated seismicity. Kernel Density Estimator analyses highlight concentrated seismic activity in the Gulfs of Aqaba and Suez. Higher magnitude events are shown to localize in areas of greater tectonic stress, aligning with known geological features. This research provides critical insights into the seismic dynamics of the Red Sea, showcasing the effectiveness of geostatistical techniques in analyzing seismic data in tectonically active regions.

Keywords

• seismic hazard
• Red Sea
• spatial seismicity
• seismic networks