Scientists have discovered a new threat to humanity

Geologists have discovered a complex and previously unknown zone of seismic activity beneath the ocean floor off the coast of Northern California. The study showed that it is located at the meeting point of the San Andreas Fault and the Cascadia Subduction Zone and is capable of causing powerful destructive earthquakes.

As reported by BAKU.WS with reference to sciencedaily.com, scientists from the US Geological Survey and several universities have determined that in the area of the so-called "triple junction" of tectonic plates, in addition to the three known plates, there are two more hidden moving parts. This discovery helps explain the nature of past earthquakes, particularly the magnitude 7.2 tremor in 1992, which occurred at an unexpectedly shallow depth.

According to the lead author of the study, David Shelley, the actual boundary of the plates turned out to be not where it was previously assumed. The new data changes perceptions of seismic risks in the region, which is already considered one of the most dangerous in the world in terms of earthquakes.