Fault-stress mapping pins down likely megaquake zones, not exact events

California researchers have developed a GPS-based method to identify locations along major fault lines most prone to producing giant earthquakes. By measuring accumulated strain in subduction zones with an algorithm, the approach can pinpoint hotspot areas where large quakes are more likely, though it cannot predict when or how severe they’ll be. The method offered insights from a Kamchatka quake in 2025 and is being applied to California faults like the Hayward Fault to improve long-term preparedness.