An Ms 7.1 earthquake struck Wushi County in Aksu Prefecture, Xinjiang at 02:09:05 on January 23, 2024. We conducted a preliminary investigation into the surface deformation characteristics at the epicenter (41.26°N, 78.63°E) and adjacent areas. The observation results show that the fault which triggered the earthquake was not widely exposed in the epicenter area. The primary surface deformations observed are mainly tensional fractures, with locally observed compression bulges, scarps and sand liquefaction. The earthquake caused approximately 5 cm of vertical displacement. The fracture zone composed of multiple tensional fractures destroyed roads, mountains and houses, and led to collapses and landslides in mountainous areas. Based on our field investigation, focal mechanism solution and aftershock distribution, it is concluded that the seismogenic structure of the earthquake is the eastern segment of Maidan fault. The future earthquake risk in this region remains high. Considering the potential risks associated with surface deformation, we recommend that local government strengthen the earthquake resistance capacity of building in pastoral areas and enhance the investigation and management of secondary geological hazards.

对2024年1月23日02时09分05秒发生于新疆维吾尔自治区阿克苏地区乌什县的Ms 7.1级地震的震中(41.26°N, 78.63°E)及周边区域的地表变形特征进行调查。观测结果显示, 引发本次地震的断裂在震中区域并未大规模出露, 地表变形以张性裂隙为主, 局部可观察到挤压鼓包、陡坎和砂土液化等现象, 造成约5 cm的垂直位错, 多条张性裂隙组成的裂隙带破坏公路、山体和房屋, 在山区多伴随崩塌和滑坡现象。综合现场调查、震源机制解和余震分布等信息, 提出此次地震的发震构造为迈丹逆冲断裂东段。该区域未来的地震风险仍然较高, 考虑到地表变形带来的潜在风险, 建议加强牧区建筑的抗震能力建设以及次生地质灾害隐患排查和治理工作。