A recent study has revealed that an earthquake could be imminent due to a massive fault line in northern Canada that has been dormant for over 40 million years. Finley et al. (2025) reported that the 621-mile-long fault line, which runs from the Yukon Territory in Canada to Alaska, spans 1,000 kilometers long, crossing the Yukon and ending in the Arctic. Researchers from the University of Victoria and the University of Alberta have identified two relatively ancient earthquakes—2.6 million years ago, and 132,000 years ago—that disrupted the ground, showing increased tectonic activity in the midlast century. However, recent geological studies lack evidence of significant earthquakes within the last 12,000 years, indicating a藏着 period that could warn of future events. The researchers conducted a fresh high-resolution analysis using satellite imagery and LIDAR, revealing narrow surface ruptures on the fault line. Based on these findings, they estimate that if lifted pressure is released, an earthquake with a magnitude of more than 7.5 could occur. The area is not overly populated, with about 1,600 people living in Dawson City, but the earthquake poses significant risks to infrastructure and ecosystems.
The researchers explained that the fault line serves as a seismic hazard, highlighting the importance of paleoseismic (past seismic) investigation. They warned that the fault may be nearing strain accumulation, and only further studies can determine the recurrence intervals of past earthquakes and whether slip rates have changed over time. The fault’s active state could pose immediate or future risks.
Back to the causes of earthquakes, this phenomenon is caused by sudden movements of the Earth’s crust and the resulting tectonic stresses. Earthquakes are typically triggered by the movement of plates. When tectonic plates collide or rub against each other, huge forces are generated, which create shockwaves that travel through the Earth. These shockwaves can split the crust and cause tsunamis or other destructive effects. Understanding the tectonic processes is crucial for predicting and mitigating the risks of earthquakes, temples, and other seismic hazards.
