Revealing the deformational anomalies based on GNSS data in relation to the preparation and stress release of large earthquakes

The results of Global Navigational Satellite System (GNSS) observations in the regions of large earthquakes are analyzed. The characteristics of the Earth’s surface deformations before, during, and after the earthquakes are considered. The obtained results demonstrate the presence of anomalous deformations close to the epicenters of the events. Statistical estimates of the anomalous strains and their relationship with measurement errors are obtained. Conclusions are drawn about the probable use of local GNSS networks to assess the risk of the occurrence of strong seismic events. © 2018, Pleiades Publishing, Ltd.