Gravity, magnetic, and high‐precision relocated seismicity profiles suggest a connection between the Hayward and Calaveras Faults, northern California

Gravity, magnetic, and seismicity data profiled across the Hayward Fault Zone were generated as part of ongoing studies to help determine the geologic and tectonic setting of the San Francisco Bay region. These data, combined with previous geophysical studies that indicate that the Hayward Fault Zone dips 75°NE near San Leandro and follows a preexisting structure, reveal a possible direct connection between the seismogenic portion of the Hayward and Calaveras Faults at depth. Although the relocated seismicity data are regional in nature, they suggest that the dip of the Hayward Fault Zone may vary from near vertical in the northwestern part of the fault to about 75°NE at San Leandro in the central part of the fault to about 50°NE in the southeastern part of the fault. Gravity and magnetic data, profiled across the Hayward Fault Zone, were processed using standard geophysical techniques. Cross sections of high‐precision relocated hypocenters were constructed along each profile from the northwestern to the southeastern end of the Hayward Fault Zone. Profiles and cross sections are referenced to Pinole Point, where the Hayward Fault enters San Pablo Bay, and are spaced 2.5 km apart. Topographic profiles shown on the seismicity cross sections were generated using U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) 7.5‐min, 30‐m digital elevation models. Relocation of seismicity data was accomplished using a regional double‐difference method. The double‐difference method incorporates ordinary travel time measurements and cross correlation of P and S wave differential travel time measurements. Relative locations between earthquakes have hypocentral errors of about 100 m horizontally and 250 m vertically. Absolute location uncertainties were not determined but are probably dramatically improved compared to the USGS's Northern California Seismic Network catalog data.