Combining conflicting Bayesian models to develop paleoseismic records—An example from the Wasatch Fault Zone, Utah

Bulletin of the Seismological Society of America
By: , and 

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Abstract

Bayesian statistical analyses of paleoseismic data result in the probabilistic determination of earthquake times using geochronological data evaluated in the context of a stratigraphic model. However, a fundamental problem in paleoseismology is how to use the Bayesian approach to model sparse and/or conflicting geochronological datasets, such as those derived from sites exhibiting episodic sedimentary and pedogenic processes in moderate‐ to high‐energy environments (e.g., a normal‐faulted alluvial fan). Using paleoseismic data for the Corner Canyon site on the Salt Lake City segment of the Wasatch fault zone (Utah), we develop an approach by which multiple Bayesian models are combined to generate an earthquake history at a site. This approach accommodates mutually exclusive interpretations of the geochronological data and thereby limits the influence of sparse data, stratigraphically inconsistent ages, or a single, subjective model interpretation. For the Corner Canyon site, we integrate four OxCal Bayesian models to generate a chronology of six events between 4.8 and 0.5  ka. Late Holocene (post‐5 ka) mean recurrence and vertical slip‐rate estimates are 0.9  ky (0.7–1.0 ky; 95% confidence) and 1.1  mm/yr (0.81.7  mm/yr range), respectively. Although our method increases the uncertainty in the timing of individual earthquakes, it more objectively accounts for potential geochronological errors and different interpretations of stratigraphic age control. By relaxing the need to select a single age model, our approach yields more accurate earthquake‐timing results that will better facilitate evaluations of along‐fault event correlation and earthquake rupture length.

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Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Combining conflicting Bayesian models to develop paleoseismic records—An example from the Wasatch Fault Zone, Utah
Series title Bulletin of the Seismological Society of America
DOI 10.1785/0120170302
Volume 108
Issue 63
Year Published 2018
Language English
Publisher Seismological Society of America
Contributing office(s) Geologic Hazards Science Center
Description 22 p.
First page 3180
Last page 3201
Country United States
State Utah
Other Geospatial Wasatch Fault Zone
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