Correlation of DInSAR deformation results and active tectonics in the city of Thessaloniki (Greece)

Differential SAR Interferometry (DInSAR) techniques can substantially contribute to overcoming the difficulties of detecting and diachronically monitoring active faults in urban environments. The correlation of spatially distributed ground deformation, measured by DInSAR, with active tectonics can considerably assist in assessing seismic hazard and risk. Belonging to a region with the highest seismicity in the North of Greece and with several active faults in and around its perimeter, the city of Thessaloniki provides an excellent case study. Using accumulated results of previous, new, as well as on-going research with DInSAR, we correlate the measured deformation with active tectonics in Thessaloniki´s built environment and suggest possible interpretations. As InSAR has the unique advantage of improving its applicability and performance with areas becoming more urbanized, it holds even greater potential for the future. Thus, we propose that monitoring of active faults with DInSAR be established as continuous task in urban areas of high seismic risk.