K. Mackey¹ , K. Abrams¹ , A. Berezina² , E. Pershina² , N. Mikhailova³ , I. Sokolova³ , B. Bekturganova⁴ , S. Murodkulov⁵ , Z. Ilyasova⁵

¹Michigan State University
²Institute of Seismology, National Academy of Science
³Institute of Geophysical Research
⁴Seismological Experimental Methodological Expedition
⁵Institute of Geology, Earthquake Engineering, and Seismology

Abstract:

Central Asia is located in a tectonically active and complex region. The area is characterized by high levels of seismicity, and many catastrophic earthquakes have occurred. Central Asia also contains or is within regional distances of many of the world’s nuclear test sites. Seismic networks in the region were developed during Soviet times, with each republic operating independent networks with standardized processing and analysis. The current distribution of seismic networks generally remains the same, though networks are now national and operated by independent countries. From Soviet times until today, most bulletin and event data were not fully exchanged between Central Asian networks. The fact that only subsets of event data were routinely exchanged and used has hindered all aspects of seismological research in the region, such as investigation into regional Earth structure, calculation of event parameters, incomplete seismic risk assessment, etc. To improve all aspects of seismological research and knowledge in Central Asia, we are merging bulletin data from the networks of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Kazakhstan into a single database. Following completion of the database, all events will be relocated, and the completed comprehensive bulletin will be submitted to the International Seismological Centre for inclusion into the global database.