Did you know there's a place beneath Canada's ground silently collecting pressure over millennia? It could suddenly trigger a massive earthquake. Recently, scientists discovered the 'Tintina Fault' in the Yukon area, which might unleash a 7.5 magnitude quake. Let's delve into what it is and how we can prepare.
What and Where is this Fault?
The Tintina Fault is an extensive line starting from the Yukon and reaching Alaska. Stretching approximately 1,000 kilometers, it crosses British Columbia and connects with another major line forming a valley in southern Canada. Although this fault line was highly active millions of years ago, it has remained dormant for the past 12,000 years.
Why is This Dangerous?
Scientists have found that this fault slowly accumulates pressure. Over the last 2.6 million years, its sides have slipped by 1,000 meters, and 75 meters over the last 136,000 years. Annually, it shifts slightly, and the accumulated pressure is now sufficient to trigger a 7.5 magnitude quake at any moment, potentially within our lifetime. Theron Finlay, a scientist, warns that this ancient, vulnerable spot might suddenly give way under accumulated pressure.
How Was This Pressure Detected?
By employing satellites and LiDAR (a technology revealing the ground beneath forests), scientists identified elevated areas (scarps) indicative of past quakes. Other evidence, such as ice patterns, revealed activity 12,000, 132,000, and 2.6 million years ago. At present, pressure equivalent to 6 meters is building up—enough to provoke an earthquake.
How Great is the Risk?
The impending quake could threaten small communities like Dawson City (population 1,600), risk mining operations, and cause landslides in mountainous regions. While the area is notorious for seismic activity, suggesting a manageable risk level, caution is advised.
When Will the Earthquake Occur?
No one can predict exactly when it will strike. It could be years away or happen suddenly. Scientists must explore the fault line for signs of past quakes. Finlay expresses uncertainty about whether the current 6-meter pressure is excessive or if more accumulation is expected.
Source: aajtak
Source: aajtak
