Earthquake Nucleation vs Episodic Slow Slip: What Controls the Mode of Fault Slip

Explore a 54-minute research presentation from the University of Liverpool's Earth Sciences department examining the fascinating phenomenon of slow slip earthquakes and their relationship to regular seismic events. Delve into three decades of GPS monitoring data that revealed slow slip as a common fault behavior, occurring at speeds between plate rate and regular earthquake velocities. Learn how these events release seismic energy over extended periods lasting days to months, primarily occurring in subduction zones near areas where megathrust earthquakes originate. Understand the significance of slow earthquakes as potential precursors to major seismic events, as demonstrated in the 2011 Tohoku-Oki and 2014 Iquique earthquakes. Gain insights into cutting-edge research conducted in rock deformation laboratories aimed at identifying the mechanisms responsible for slow slip phenomena in subduction zones, crucial for improving seismic risk assessment and mitigation strategies.