UAV-based investigation of earthquake-induced deformation and landscape changes: a case study of the February 6, 2023 Earthquakes in Hatay, Türkiye

This study uses Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to investigate earthquake-induced deformation in Turkey's Hatay region after significant earthquakes in February 2023. The study employs UAV photogrammetry to get high-resolution 3D modeling and aerial imagery to analyze surface deformations and fractures in the bedrock. Results show extensive fractures and fragmentation, with 7 cracks ranging from 24.11 to 497.69 m in length. Two subsidence areas are identified, measuring 23,060.8 m(2) and 13,954.2 m(2) respectively, with elevation changes of up to 20 m. Profile analysis within the subsidence area reveals the extent of physical deformations. The accuracy and precision of the photogrammetric products are validated with a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 4.6 cm, indicating high accuracy. The 3 Dimensional (3D) models and observed fractures provide insights into the spatial patterns and magnitudes of surface deformations. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of UAV-based data in analyzing earthquake-induced deformations and landscape changes, offering a foundation for future research.

Automated summary

This study utilizes UAVs to investigate earthquake-induced deformations in Turkey's Hatay region, providing high-resolution 3D modeling and aerial imagery to analyze surface deformations and fractures. Results show extensive fractures and two subsidence areas, with accurate photogrammetric measurements validating the data. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of UAV-based data in analyzing earthquake-induced deformations and offers a foundation for future research.