Spatial-temporal Distribution Characteristics of Global Seismic Clusters and Associated Spatial Factors

Earthquakes exhibit clear clustering on the earth. It is important to explore the spatial-temporal characteristics of seismicity clusters and their spatial heterogeneity. We analyze effects of plate space, tectonic style, and their interaction on characteristic of cluster. Based on data of earthquakes not less than moment magnitude ( M W ) 5.6 from 1960 to 2014, this study used the spatial-temporal scan method to identify earthquake clusters. The results indicate that seismic spatial-temporal clusters can be classified into two types based on duration: persistent clusters and burst clusters. Finally, we analysed the spatial heterogeneity of the two types. The main conclusions are as follows: 1) Ninety percent of the persistent clusters last for 22–38 yr and show a high clustering likelihood; ninety percent of the burst clusters last for 1–1.78 yr and show a high relative risk. 2) The persistent clusters are mainly distributed in interplate zones, especially along the western margin of the Pacific Ocean. The burst clusters are distributed in both intraplate and interplate zones, slightly concentrated in the India-Eurasia interaction zone. 3) For the persistent type, plate interaction plays an important role in the distribution of the clusters’ likelihood and relative risk. In addition, the tectonic style further enhances the spatial heterogeneity. 4) For the burst type, neither plate activity nor tectonic style has an obvious effect on the distribution of the clusters’ likelihood and relative risk. Nevertheless, interaction between these two spatial factors enhances the spatial heterogeneity, especially in terms of relative risk.