Database of Potential Sources for Earthquakes larger than M 5.5 in Italy and surrounding areas. Version 3.0 (DISS 3.0)

Abstract

We present the state of advancement of a new version of the Database of Potential Sources for Earthquakes larger than M 5.5 in Italy (Valensise e Pantosti, 2001, Annali di Geofisica, Suppl. to vol. 44, 4, 180 pp., with CD-ROM). The main object of the database is the seismogenic source, intended as a simplified and georeferenced 3D representation of a fault plane. The seismogenic source is identified through geological and geophysical investigations and is assumed to be capable of primary slip during a large earthquake. Seismogenic sources for which geological and seismological data are insufficient are derived from quantitative treatment of historical earthquake data. The Database is implemented on a GIS platform and is open to additions and improvements. We devoted the last three years to improve specific information on previously identified seismogenic sources and to implement new ones. The updated Database contains 100 seismogenic sources based on geological/geophysical data (40 more than the previous version). These sources cover the whole Italian territory and some conterminous regions. They also show the fundamental architecture of major active fault systems, thus highlighting areas of limited seismic release and potential seismic gaps. The Database also includes: 1) about 1,700 selected references to scientific literature (1,256 in the previous version) specifically pertinent to the identified seismogenic sources; 2) new pictures selected from the literature, such as geological maps, cross-sections, and photographs; 3) an improvement of the section dedicated to basic georeferenced geological/geophysical data. As a result of these improvements the end users will benefit from a better definition of already outlined seismogenic fault systems and the identification of new ones, along with a more reliable documentation supporting the database content. DISS 3.0 will hopefully stimulate innovative seismic hazard assessment approaches based on the use of individual seismogenic sources.