Influence of Geological and Geomorphological Factors on Vertical Co-Seismic Deformation Induced by the Mw 7.2 Al Haouz Earthquake (Morocco, 2023)

Abstract. This study analyzes the influence of structural, lithological, and geomorphological factors on vertical co-seismic deformation caused by the Mw 7.2 Al Haouz earthquake of 8 September 2023 in Morocco. Vertical deformation, derived from Differential InSAR analysis of Sentinel-1A imagery, was compared with lithological units, fault structures, and terrain attributes extracted from the FABDEM digital elevation model, including slope, aspect, and geomorphon-based landform classes. Results show that deformation was strongly controlled by geology. Cambrian shaly formations, known for their plasticity and instability, exhibited the highest vertical displacements. Proximity to faults also enhanced deformation, with a 1000 m buffer around mapped faults yielding mean uplift of 5.3 cm (SD = 5.4 cm) and deformation gradients averaging 1.02% (SD = 1.8%). Topography played a significant role. Flat areas (