Compression along the northern Apenninines? Evidence from the Mw 5.3 Monghidoro earthquake

Abstract

In this paper, we present the seismological data recorded during the deployment of a dense three-component seismic network installed a few hours after the 2003 Mw 5.3 Monghidoro earthquake, in northern Apennines. The main shock focal solutions derived from polarities distribution and body wave modelling of regional broadband data show a NE–SW striking reverse mechanism. Accurate relative locations of aftershocks and the inversion of focal mechanisms show that earthquakes occurred on a NW-dipping backthrust within the Adria lithosphere under a NW-trending horizontal compression. The observed compression is a secondary process possibly explained by differential motion within the Adriatic lithosphere. Fault geometry and kinematics is controlled by pre-existing structures.