Story perspectives

New Model Reveals Complexity of Mendocino Triple Junction

1/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Geological Survey, University of California, Davis, and University of Colorado Boulder developed a Mendocino Triple Junction model showing five blocks.
The model shows the San Andreas fault and Cascadia subduction zone junction is more complex than previously thought.
The study, published January 15, 2026, uses tiny, low-frequency earthquakes to illuminate tectonic motion.
It explains the shallow depth of a 1992 earthquake, suggesting the subducting surface is not as deep as previously believed.
The National Science Foundation supported the research.

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Story summary

The U.S. Geological Survey, University of California, Davis, and University of Colorado Boulder developed a Mendocino Triple Junction model showing five blocks.
The model shows the San Andreas fault and Cascadia subduction zone junction is more complex than previously thought.
The study, published January 15, 2026, uses tiny, low-frequency earthquakes to illuminate tectonic motion.
It explains the shallow depth of a 1992 earthquake, suggesting the subducting surface is not as deep as previously believed.
The National Science Foundation supported the research.