Surface cracks—geomorphological indicators for late Quaternary halotectonic movements in Northern Germany

Loading and unloading effects of the Scandinavian Ice Sheet triggered halotectonic movements in Northern Germany. We present newly detected geomorphological features—termed surface cracks—which indicate a relation between ice sheet-induced salt movement processes. As part Central European Basin System, numerous Zechstein structures are abundant North German Basin. On basis high-resolution digital terrain data, more than 160 cracks were mapped Germany, which grouped into 30 clusters. Almost all occur above top regions structures. The can be several kilometres long, up to 20 m deep 100 wide. comparison shape orientation reveals geometric dependency, indicating that preferably near crest margins Furthermore, 3D seismic data from two sites show subsurface faults originating exist beneath cracks. interpret as ruptures due movements. variety Quaternary sediments landforms. This indicates widespread halokinetic occurred region after last (Weichselian) deglaciation likely before thawing permafrost, possibly time frame c. 30–20 ka until 15 ka.