An update of Algerian’s seismic catalog from historical seismicity, archeoseismological, and paleoseismological studies

Abstract

For any seismic hazard study, a reliable, homogenized, and complete seismic catalog is required. The Algerian seismicity catalog has been recently updated by retrieving and reappraising many historical events. The Algerian seismic network has also been densified up to about 80 seismic stations covering the Tell Atlas which is the most active area of northern Algeria for monitoring of the seismic activity reducing the magnitude threshold. Recently, we have launched archeoseismological studies to retrieve past strong earthquakes that have affected Roman sites located along the Tell Atlas. Here, we proceed with tectonic investigations around selected sites where significant observed damage were identified. On the other hand, paleoseismological investigations were conducted along the El Asnam fault (now Chlef) following the large Ms 7.3 earthquake of 1980. Paleoseismic studies combined with archeoseismological results provide the dating of past earthquakes and contribute to the completeness of the seismicity catalog.