Controls on subduction zone earthquakes: Sumatra and the Makran
Dr Tim Henstock, University of Southampton
Outline: The seismic activity offshore Sumatra which started in 2004 shows the importance
of understanding controls on plate boundary earthquakes at subduction zones. Adjacent
segments of the subduction zone ruptured in major earthquakes that had very different
characteristics, both in how far up-dip seismogenic slip propagated and along-strike extent.
In this talk I will explore the structure of the downgoing plate, physical properties of the
sedimentary section, and temperature as possible controls in Sumatra. I will then show how
these controls may impact assessment of hazards at other subduction zones with thick
sedimentary sequences such as the Makran.