THE 22nd OF NOVEMBER, 2013 EARTHQUAKE AT SOUTHEAST SHERWANA CASTLE, KALAR DISTRICT

Abstract

Sherwana castle, located 3.25 Km to the southeast of Kalar, was subjected in 22 November, 2013 to earthquake of magnitude 5.6 degree on the Richter scale. This event took place about 12.25 Km to the northeast from the castle. It caused damage to constructions especially in the second floor and within the areas around the castle. The event is followed by aftershocks that continued for two months; their influence is noticed in Khanaqin city and the Iraq – Iran border. Three historical events and 412 recent events within 50 Km radius in the area are documented. Their magnitudes range between (1.2 – 5.6) degrees. Seismotectonic map of the area shows a good relationship between the distribution patterns of epicenters to the geologic structures of the region. Isointensity map is constructed and shows the intensity to range between (I – VII) according to the Mercalli scale. Fault plane solution of 16 events in the study area indicates thrust with some strike slip and normal faulting along NW – SE planes.