Mapping Earthquakes in Malawi Using Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology (IRIS) Catalogue for 1972–2021

Abstract

Cartographic data visualization is crucial for geological mapping in seismically active areas of Malawi. Representation of the datasets from IRIS database is beneficial for hazard risk assessment, forecasting and damage mitigation, especially for mapping the distribution and magnitude of earthquakes. Scripting cartography using Generic Mapping Tools (GMT) was used to map seismicity in Malawi Rift Zone based on IRIS catalogue for 1972–2021. The maps show relations among the elevation heights, distribution of seismic events and volcanos in the north of the Malawi Lake. The results show correlation between elevations and seismicity with local topographic depressions. Seismic data show variability of the seismicity level with more earthquakes recorded in the north of the country. This paper contributes to the regional studies of Malawi for risk assessment and geological hazard analysis.