Seismogenic structure behaviour revealed by spatial clustering of seismicity in the Umbria-Marche Region (Central Italy)

Abstract

Time variations in the spatial distribution of earthquake epicentres are analyzed by application of the fractal correlation dimension method. The zone under investigation is located in Central Italy, bounded in longitude by 12.0 and 14.4 degrees east and in latitude by 42.0 and 43.6 degrees north. From 1st January 1978 to 5th October 1997, 2028 events with a magnitude above M(l) = 2.5 constitute the database. Evolution of the spatial fractal dimension D(s) permits the identification of seismic cycles that are connected to the occurrence of main earthquakes. In particular, it is possible to recognize a division within each cycle, between a period of random background seismicity and a spatial clustering of events where shocks of magnitude M(l)≥4.0 occur. Moreover, the decrease in D(s) prior to such events, evidences a structural relationship between foreshocks and the occurrence of a main shock, even if not in close territorial proximity. This feature indicates a new, more extensive definition of seismogenic structure which can includes several interconnected structures within a large area.