Examining the Impact of February 6 Earthquakes on the Dead Sea Fault Zone
A team of researchers led by Prof. Dr. Hasan Sözbilir from Dokuz Eylül University is currently conducting important research on fault lines in Turkey. The project, focusing on determining paleoseismological features of active faults in the country, has now moved to Hatay after previously working in Malatya.
In the Hacıpaşa Neighborhood of the Altınözü district, the team is specifically studying the Hacıpaşa fault of the Dead Sea Fault Zone. By digging trenches in the region and collecting samples for analysis, scientists hope to better understand the movements of the fault line.
The team, consisting of 10 members and academics from various universities, is also examining the effects of the earthquakes that occurred on February 6, 2023. Prof. Dr. Sözbilir mentioned that deformations related to the February 6 earthquake were observed during their research, indicating the potential for future seismic activity in the area.
According to Sözbilir, the project will contribute to the reorganization of the Turkey Earthquake Hazard Map. More than 100 scientists from 14 universities are involved in the project, aiming to determine the recurrence intervals and general characteristics of earthquakes along active faults.
The findings of this research will not only provide valuable insights into the seismic activity in Turkey but also help in understanding the potential risks posed by neighboring faults, including those in Syria. By studying these faults comprehensively, researchers hope to improve earthquake preparedness and mitigation measures in the region.
