A team of researchers from the Yukon Geological Survey is conducting aerial surveys in a remote mountainous area in southwest Yukon to investigate avalanches and landslides triggered by a magnitude 7.0 earthquake that shook the region recently. The earthquake, which occurred near the Alaska-Yukon border on Dec. 6, has provided evidence for a long-held theory by revealing a concealed fault beneath the Earth’s surface.
This seismic event has shed light on an area that has been relatively unexplored, where two major plate boundary systems intersect at nearly right angles, presenting a unique geological scenario. Michael West, Alaska’s state seismologist and research professor at the Alaska Earthquake Center, highlighted the complexity of this region, often referred to as the ‘train wreck of plate tectonics.’
Although both Alaska and the Yukon are known for their seismic activity, the recent earthquake struck an area that historically had not experienced significant seismic events in recent decades. This anomaly has led researchers to believe in a linkage between the North American plate boundary and large faults within the plate. Jan Dettmer, geoscience research manager at the Yukon Geological Survey, emphasized the importance of directly observing this phenomenon, which has drawn international interest.
The earthquake, which occurred at 12:41 p.m. local time on Dec. 6, was most strongly felt in the communities of Burwash Landing and Haines Junction, Yukon, with tremors reaching as far as Whitehorse, approximately 250 kilometers away. Residents like Pascale Dubois from Burwash Landing recounted the intense shaking that shook their homes, causing fear and panic.
Despite the earthquake causing minor disruptions and damage, its magnitude was not to be underestimated. Michael West emphasized the destructive potential of a magnitude-7 earthquake, noting the extensive rupture length associated with such events.
In the aftermath, the impact of the earthquake is visible in the terrain of Yukon’s Kluane National Park, where researchers are actively studying the fault and its effects on the landscape. The ongoing aftershocks are expected to provide valuable insights into the tectonic processes shaping the region, particularly in relation to mountain-building activities.
The research community is closely monitoring the seismic activity and its implications for the region’s geological future. By mapping the fault lines beneath the surface, scientists aim to enhance their understanding of earthquake risks in the area and improve preparedness measures for nearby communities.