After a magnitude 6.8 earthquake occurred in Dingri County, Shigatse City, Tibet on the 7th, the China Earthquake Network Center quickly organized experts to hold a consultation to conduct analysis and research on the earthquake-related situation. What is the cause of this earthquake? Will there be a bigger earthquake? Experts gave an analysis.
The Indian Ocean plate is squeezed northward and the movement of the crust
According to the results of expert consultation, the epicenter of the 6.8-magnitude earthquake in Shigatse is located inside the Lhasa plot in the southern part of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, and the focal mechanism is a tension-type rupture. Overall, this earthquake was formed by normal northward squeezing and crust movement of the Indian Ocean plate, and was a release of energy in the Lhasa plot. Since 1950, there have been 21 earthquakes above magnitude 6 in this area, with the largest being the 2017 Milin magnitude 6.9 earthquake in Tibet.
There is a possibility of sensitive earthquakes in the earthquake area in the next few days
Experts said that generally speaking, after a major earthquake occurs, multiple aftershock activities will be observed in its focal area and adjacent areas. These aftershock activities gradually weaken in intensity and frequency over time, and there will also be ups and downs during the process. From the current perspective, after the first earthquake, relatively dense low aftershocks appeared, indicating that the energy is gradually being released. Therefore, it is expected that there will be a possibility of sensitive earthquakes in the original earthquake zone and nearby areas in the next few days.
The lowest temperature of strong winds and cooling will occur in the earthquake zone -18℃
In addition, according to the comprehensive analysis of the China Meteorological Administration, the earthquake zone will be mainly sunny in the next three days, but there will be strong winds and cooling weather. The gusts may reach 8-9, and the daily temperature will be relatively different. The highest temperature is 7℃, and the lowest temperature at night may reach -18℃. Disaster relief personnel should take measures to prevent cold and wind protection, and pay attention to safety when heating in emergency tents.
