Numerical modeling: The evolution of tectonic stress field in the Longmenshan region

In the Longmenshan region located in southwestern China and the northeastern edge of Qinghai-Tibetan plateau, the Wenchuan earthquake with a magnitude of 8.0 occurred in 2008. To study the evolution of the tectonic stress field before, during and after the earthquake, a two-dimensional numerical modeling was carried out. It was found that from the time period before the earthquake to the time period after the earthquake, the regional stress field had changed. The change coincides well with the deformation caused by the earthquake and the distribution of the after-shocks. The results may be applied in the prediction of earthquakes and the design of the underground constructions in the region.