A dynamic view on key regional factors governing megathrust earthquakes, subduction mechanics and tsunami genesis

Determining characteristics that control subduction zone earthquake and tsunami dynamics is critical to mitigate megathrust hazards, but this is impeded by structural complexity, large spatio-temporal scales, and scarce instrumental coverage. Megathrust earthquake variability has been qualitatively explained using conceptual models. Depth-varying rupture behavior has been attributed to the presence of weaker materials in the near trench region. Along-arc variations in tectonic loading, megathrust interface topography, and seismic coupling have been invoked in space and time.