Crustal deformation in southern California using SAR interferometry

By combining pairs of ERS-1/2 SAR images of Southern California spanning long time intervals (1-4 years), we were able to measure the rate of slow deformation processes along faults activated during the Landers 1992 earthquake. Interferograms revealed several centimeters of post-seismic rebound in step-overs of the 1992 break, with a characteristic decay rate of -280 days. We interpreted this process as due to pore fluid flow as pore pressure gradients caused by coseismic stress changes dissipate. The data also revealed evidence of after-slip on different sections of the fault. The southern branches of the 1992 break experienced surface creep producing sharp phase cuts hi the interferometric maps. The same approach was used in the Los Angeles basin, which is currently undergoing NS shortening at a rate of ???8 mm/yr. The tectonic signal in imerferograms of the Los Angeles basin is intermingled with signals due to other sources such as ground subsidence caused by oil and water withdrawal.