Geomorphic mapping and ground-penetrating radar survey of the western segment of the Agua Blanca fault, Baja California, Mexico

The Agua Blanca fault system is a dextral strike-slip fault system in northwestern Baja California, Mexico. Despite no historic seismic activity, the geomorphology suggests that the fault is active. Geomorphic maps (&sim1:10,000) were completed within three field areas along the western segment of the main fault. Diagnostic features such as deflected stream channels provide evidence of recent fault activity. The presence of well-developed triangular facets suggests an additional normal component to this strike-slip system. Ground-penetrating radar surveys were conducted to image the fault in the near surface. Many more fault splays were mapped within the sections than were visible at the surface, indicating the complexity of the fault system. Alluvial surfaces were identified within the sections and characterized based on continuity and shape of reflectors.