Anatolianförkastningen

The Anatolian fault, also known as the Anatolian fault zone or the North Anatolian Fault (NAF), is a major strike-slip fault that runs across northern Anatolia in Turkey. It is one of the most active seismic zones in the world, responsible for numerous large earthquakes throughout history. The fault extends for approximately 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) from the East Anatolian Fault in eastern Turkey westward to the Aegean Sea.

Geologically, the NAF marks the boundary between the Eurasian Plate and the Anatolian Plate. The Anatolian Plate is being squeezed westward by the collision of the Arabian Plate from the south and the Eurasian Plate from the north. This immense pressure causes the Anatolian Plate to move laterally along the NAF, resulting in significant seismic activity.

The NAF is divided into several segments, with the westernmost sections being the most active in recent times. Major earthquakes have occurred along the NAF, including devastating events in 1939, 1942, 1943, 1944, 1949, 1957, 1959, 1966, 1967, 1976, 1999 (Izmit and Düzce earthquakes), and 2014. These earthquakes have caused widespread destruction and loss of life, highlighting the significant seismic hazard posed by the fault.

The NAF's activity has shaped the topography of northern Turkey, creating linear valleys and scarps. Understanding the behavior of this fault is crucial for earthquake preparedness and hazard mitigation in the region, as well as for advancing our knowledge of plate tectonics and fault mechanics globally.