Seismicity of the Eastern Sector of the Russian Arctic During the Instrumental Period of Observations

This study examines the spatio-temporal patterns of seismicity in the eastern sector of the Russian Arctic over the entire period of instrumental observations (1900–2022). Based on the most comprehensive set of instrumental data and employing a modern global velocity model together with an improved location algorithm, a consolidated, recalculated, and unified earthquake catalogue was compiled for the period 1900–1961. Its integration with the previously developed unified earthquake catalogue of the Arctic Zone of the Russian Federation for 1962–2022 made it possible to produce a generalized catalogue for the entire region, covering the full instrumental observation period. Using this catalogue, earthquake parameters were compared with the lineament–domain–focal (LDF) models of the GSZ-97 and GSZ-2016 General Seismic Zoning Maps of Russia. It was found that the LDF model of GSZ-2016 shows the best agreement with the instrumental data, whereas the GSZ-97 model requires adjustments to the maximum magnitude (Mmax) values for several domains and lineaments. The results obtained can be used to refine the parameters of the regional seismic regime, improve the reliability of seismic hazard assessments, and ensure the safe operation of infrastructure during the development of natural resources in the Arctic.