Possible mechanism of the formation of the Jichechang ground fissure in Datong, China, based on in-situ observations

Abstract The Datong region of China suffers from severe ground fissure (GF) disasters. Jichechang (JGF) is typical among the GFs in and most active. To provide scientific guidance for disaster mitigation, understanding mechanisms governing GF activity needs to be improved. Here, long-term monitoring data (> 10 years) JGF are used study characteristics its activity. results show that formation mainly controlled by concealed faults. active vertical direction, with a differential displacement 2.5 times greater than horizontal displacement. periodic, periodicity 320–420 days, which corresponds cycle local agricultural irrigation. especially June July. this also displays distinct quasi-periodic step-like acceleration duration 18–38 days. Numerical simulations irrigation pumping within km has significant effect on movement GFs. These better area valuable reference other regions.