Scientists Finally Solve the Mystery of “Clockwork” Earthquakes

A new study of the Gofar transform fault in the eastern Pacific explains decades of repeating “clockwork” earthquakes.

Using seafloor seismic data from two ocean-bottom experiments, researchers found hidden barrier zones that repeatedly slow or stop rupture.

These structurally complex fault barriers act like brakes, helping limit some quakes to about magnitude 6 instead of growing larger.

The findings, published in Science, could improve understanding of where earthquakes stop and strengthen seismic hazard assessment.