The Role of Slow Slip Events in the Cascadia Subduction Zone Earthquake Cycle

Slow slip events (SSEs) detected on the Cascadia Subduction Zone interface at 30-50 km depth imply a release of accumulated strain. However, studies of interseismic deformation in Cascadia typically find coupling on the upper 30 km of the interface, which is generally accepted as defining the seismogenic zone. Estimates of coupling using net interseismic velocities (including SSE effects) and restricting coupling to the shallow interface may underestimate slip deficit accumulation at depths >30 km. Here, we detect reversals in GPS motion as indications of SSEs, then use SSE displacements to estimate cumulative slow slip from 2007 to 2021. We calculate pure interseismic velocities, correcting for SSE displacements, and use them to constrain an elastic block model, estimating slip deficit on the subduction interface down to 50 km. By evaluating slip deficit and slow slip independently, we examine SSEs' effect on interseismic strain accumulation, and the effect of inter-SSE slip deficit and slow slip on vertical deformation of the forearc. We find that moderate to high coupling extends to 40 km depth, and while shallow coupling is consistent with previous estimates of the seismogenic zone, a deeper region of slip deficit beneath the Olympic Peninsula may be partially (61%) relieved aseismically by SSEs. Patterns of surface uplift suggest that complete relief of deep coupling over multiple decades may be accomplished by time-varying rates of aseismic slip.

Automated summary

Slow slip events (SSEs) occurring at depths of 30-50 km on the Cascadia Subduction Zone interface indicate the release of accumulated strain. However, previous studies have primarily focused on coupling within the upper 30 km of the interface, which is considered the seismogenic zone. By analyzing reversals in GPS motion and utilizing SSE displacements, this study estimates cumulative slow slip from 2007 to 2021 and examines its impact on interseismic strain accumulation. The findings suggest that moderate to high coupling extends to 40 km depth, and a deeper region beneath the Olympic Peninsula may experience partial aseismic relief through SSEs.