New Seismic Zonation for Central America and Implications in Seismic Hazard

Abstract eng:
A new seismic zoning for Central America is proposed in this work, including significant changes in the boundary of zones proposed in previous zonations. The main changes are based on a detailed analysis of: seismotectonic framework, geological context, the update seismic catalogue and other geophysical and geodetic evidences (gravimetric maps, GPS observations). After that, we define the new seismogenic zones based on similar patterns of faulting, seismicity, and rupture mechanism inside each zone. The tectonic environment has required taking into account zones in three particular seismological regimes: a) crustal faulting, including, local faults, major fracture zones of plate boundary limits, and thrust fault deformed belts, b) subduction interplate and c) subduction intraplate or inslab. The seismicity each one has being associated with particular ranges in depth, which are variables taking into account the change in the subduction angle along the Mesoamerica Trench. In fact, the depth for the subduction zones, decrease in the northern Central America (Guatemala, El Salvador and Nicaragua) with respect the southern part (Costa Rica and Panama), and this is also incorporated in the new zonation.

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