Rapid hydrothermal triggering of induced seismicity at the Coso Geothermal Field
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Abstract
The long-term producing Coso Geothermal Field (CGF) in California operates over 100 wells tapping into a reservoir characterized by an extensive fracture network, complex fluid pathways, and regular seismic activity. Understanding the interaction between seismicity and injection can shed important light on the hydrothermal characteristics of the field. Here, we analyze 15 years of local seismic and daily operational data from the CGF, identifying a strong correlation between short-term increase in seismicity rate and seasonal volumetric and temperature variations in the reinjected fluid. Furthermore, the seismic footprint during peak injection of colder fluids reveals a near-instantaneous response up to 2 km away from the injection well, too rapid for pore pressure diffusion alone. This short-term and distant response is observed to have directional preference, indicating structural or permeability anisotropy within the reservoir. Additionally, the seismic response correlates with the initial volumetric increase of colder fluids, but also with temperature decrease during stable injection periods, suggesting thermal effects alone can play an important role in triggering distant seismicity.
Suggested Citation
Holmgren, J.M., Kaven, J., and Oye, V., 2026, Rapid hydrothermal triggering of induced seismicity at the Coso Geothermal Field: Scientific Reports, v. 16, 7057, 13 p., https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-38146-x.
Study Area
| Publication type | Article |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
| Title | Rapid hydrothermal triggering of induced seismicity at the Coso Geothermal Field |
| Series title | Scientific Reports |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-38146-x |
| Volume | 16 |
| Publication Date | February 03, 2026 |
| Year Published | 2026 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | Springer Nature |
| Contributing office(s) | Earthquake Science Center |
| Description | 7057, 13 p. |
| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| Other Geospatial | Coso Range |