Concurrent deformation processes in the Matese massif area (Central-Southern Apennines, Italy)

Abstract

We investigated the interseismic GPS velocity field across the transition zone between Central and Southern Apennine comprising the Meta–Mainarde-Venafro and Alto Molise–Sannio-Matese mounts. The kinematic field obtained by combining GPS network solutions is based on data collected by the unpublished episodic campaigns carried out on Southern Apennine Geodetic network (SAGNet from 2000 to 2013), IGM95 network (Giuliani et al., 2009 from 1994 to 2007) and continuous GPS stations. The data collected after the 29 December 2013 earthquake (Mw 5.0) until early 2014 allowed estimating displacements at 15 SAGNet stations. The extension rate computed across the Matese massif along an anti-Apennine profile is 2.0±0.2 mm/yr. The interseismic velocities projected along the profile show that the maximum extension does not follow the topographic high of the Apennines but is shifted toward the eastern outer belt. No significant GPS deformation corresponding to inner faults systems of the Matese massif is detected. Taking into account our results and other geophysical data, we propose a conceptual model, which identifies the 2013–2014 seismic sequence as not due to an extensional deformation style usual along the Apennine chain. In fact, we have measured too large “coseismic” displacements, that could be explained as the result of tectonic regional stress, CO2-rich fluid migration and elastic loading of water in the karst Matese massif. We recognized a tensile source as model of dislocation of 2013–2014 earthquakes. It represents a simplification of a main fault system and fracture zone affecting the Matese massif. The dislocation along NE-dipping North Matese Fault System (NMFS) could be the driving mechanism of the recent seismic sequences. Moreover, to the first time the SAGnet GPS data collected from 1994 to 2014, are share and available to the scientific community in the open access data archive.