Shallow fault identification in the Sumani segment using Wenner resistivity and DEM data

Authors

  • Nadya Pintasari Maringga Department of Physics, Institut Teknologi Sumatera Author
  • Januar H Setiawan Centre for Geological Survey, Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry Author
  • Berwyn Dzaky Radhitya Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58524/cesl/v1i1.103

Keywords:

Sumatra Fault, Sumani segment, Geoelectrical resistivity, Wenner configuration, DEM, Lineament analysis

Abstract

The Sumatran Fault is a major strike-slip fault system extending approximately 1,900 km from Banda Aceh to South Lampung, running parallel to the Sunda subduction zone. In West Sumatra, the fault system is divided into 19 segments, including the Sumani segment, which is associated with frequent destructive earthquakes according to USGS records. Identifying shallow subsurface fault structures is essential for earthquake hazard mitigation in this region. This study aims to delineate shallow fault structures based on resistivity distribution patterns and to verify their alignment with geomorphological features derived from Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data. Geoelectrical resistivity surveys using the Wenner configuration were conducted in Solok along seven profiles of varying lengths. The interpretation of resistivity sections reveals several fault structures: a reverse fault along the BPG line (150–160 m), a dextral shear fault along the LMB line (44–46 m), reverse faults along the TBK line (108–116 m and 136–148 m), a dextral shear fault along the BBD line (64–68 m), a normal fault along the PGI line (88–92 m), and sinistral shear faults along the TGR (78–84 m) and KTK (60–66 m) lines. The identified fault locations correspond with surface geomorphological expressions, such as escarpments, linear hills, and river alignments observed in the DEM data. These results demonstrate that integrated resistivity and topographic analyses effectively delineate shallow fault structures within the Sumani segment of the Sumatran Fault.

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Published

2026-02-18

How to Cite

Maringga, N. P., Setiawan, J. H., & Radhitya, B. D. (2026). Shallow fault identification in the Sumani segment using Wenner resistivity and DEM data. Computer in Earth Science Letters, 1(1), 08-15. https://doi.org/10.58524/cesl/v1i1.103