In a United States Geological Survey (USGS) study, preliminary rupture models of the earthquake indicated displacement of up to 9 meters along a fault approximately 240 km long by 20 km deep. The earthquake generated deformations of the surface greater than 3 meters and increased the stress (and probability of occurrence of future events) at the northeastern and southwestern ends of the fault. On May 20, USGS seismologist Tom Parsons warned that there is "high risk" of a major M>7 aftershock over the next weeks or months. COUNT 7
QSN1 How large was the displacement? ANS1 up to 9 meters QSN2 Who warned of possible seismic activity in the area beforehand? ANS2 Tom Parsons QSN3 What did the United States Geological Survey show as the amount of displacement? ANS3 9 meters QSN4 How long was the fault where the quake occurred? ANS4 240 km long QSN5 How deep is the fault? ANS5 20 km deep QSN6 Where on the fault is the possibility of future earthquakes increased? ANS6 northeastern and southwestern ends QSN7 What did Tom Parsons consider as the risk factor for strong future quakes? ANS7 high risk