Combining earthquakes and GPS data to estimate the probability of future earthquakes with magnitude M_w ≥ 6.0

Abstract. According to Wyss et al. (2000) result indicates that future main earthquakes can be expected along zones characterized by low b values. In this study we combine Benioff strain with global positioning system (GPS) data to estimate the probability of future M_w ≥ 6.0 earthquakes for a grid covering Taiwan. An approach similar to the maximum likelihood method was used to estimate Gutenberg–Richter parameters a and b. The two parameters were then used to estimate the probability of simulating future earthquakes of M_w ≥ 6.0 for each of the 391 grids (grid interval = 0.1°) covering Taiwan. The method shows a high probability of earthquakes in western Taiwan along a zone that extends from Taichung southward to Nantou, Chiayi, Tainan and Kaohsiung. In eastern Taiwan, there also exists a high probability zone from Ilan southward to Hualian and Taitung. These zones are characterized by high earthquake entropy, high maximum shear strain rates, and paths of low b values. A relation between entropy and maximum shear strain rate is also obtained. It indicates that the maximum shear strain rate is about 4.0 times the entropy. The results of this study should be of interest to city planners, especially those concerned with earthquake preparedness. And providing the earthquake insurers to draw up the basic premium.