Multi-disciplinary analysis to construct a crustal model of the Sicily Channel using geological and geophysical techniques (data): impacts on geological hazard

To understand the dynamics of crustal deformation and earthquakes in active orogenic systems, it is essential to have a detailed view of the lithospheric structures in three dimensions (3D). Several studies in the literature explain how 3D visualization can enable the recognition of tectonic structures or to be able to establish connections between intraplate volcanoes (Wu et al., 2016; Lei & Zhao, 2016; Tan et al., 2019). This work aims to define and discretize a 1D-velocity model of the Sicily Channel; create a detailed 3D lithospheric model of the Sicily Channel using a multidisciplinary approach to evaluate the geological hazard elements that affect the Iblean foreland integrating bathymetry, heat flow, magnetometric, gravimetric, seismicity, geophysical data, and main active faults. Moreover, it aims to produce a qualitative and quantitative model of Moho, integrating data on the most relevant earthquakes and active faults. Until now, the information concerning the deep lithospheric structure of the Sicily Channel is not very detailed. Most of the knowledge is generally related to the monitoring of earthquakes (e.g., Calò & Parisi, 2014; Agius et al., 2020), seismic surface wave tomography (Kherchouche et al., 2020; Agius et al., 2020), the analysis and interpretation of seismic surface profiles (e.g., Torelli et al., 1995; Corti et al., 2006; Khomsi et al., 2009; Cavallaro et al., 2017; Civile et al., 2018; 2021), analysis of volcanic system (e.g., Rotolo et al., 2006) and plate movement. In addition, the seismic models in the area concern possibly large-scale seismic models that do not cover the total area of the Sicily Channel or are incomplete to be updated. Three-dimensional lithospheric modeling allows immediate determination of the geometric and kinematic relationships between deep dynamic processes and deformations occurring in the surface crust. Several studies have shown how the three-dimensional model visualization approach, which constrains data of different natures, can be helpful in the study of global tectonics. For example, Wu et al. (2016) performed a tectonic reconstruction of the plates of the Philippine and Asian seas, in which slabs were mapped 3D, allowing them to be quantitatively constructed and plotted in depth. Lu et al. (2019) developed a three-dimensional visualization technique and produced a lithospheric model below the Tibetan plateau. Although the Sicily Channel is developed in the Pelagian block, an area considered geologically stable bounded by the southern African plateau and the northern Eurasian plateau, complex geological structures characterize it and are seismically active. This zone is known for its potential seismic hazard, as it is located in a seismically active zone; the area suggests that future seismic events are possible. However, it is essential to note that earthquakes' occurrence and intensity are difficult to predict with certainty; attempts are made to monitor and study the seismic activity in the Mediterranean region. Seismological networks and research institutions work to assess seismic hazards and improve understanding of the geological processes at play. These efforts aim to provide early warning systems and develop an approach for mitigating potential earthquakes' impact. A 3D geodynamic model of the lithosphere is a theoretical framework to study the processes and movements within Earth’s lithosphere, and it aims to show the dynamics of the lithosphere's evolution over geological timescales. By defining the geodynamic model of the Sicilian Channel's lithosphere, which contains various components, it is possible to identify, e.g., main seismogenic structures or structures that affect the uplift of deep magmatic fluids. Overall, 3D lithosphere geodynamic models allow understanding of Earth's dynamic processes better and improve the ability to interpret geological observations. They help to refine knowledge of plate tectonics, seismic hazards, and the long-term evolution of the Earth's surface.