Mass transport on the continental slope of Israel

Seismic profiles, radiographs, and geotechnical tests made on cores show that large sediment masses on the slope frequently slump downslope. This slumping is earthquake-triggered. Off central and northern Israel (average maximum gradients 5 to 8°), this slumping does not allow continuous sediment accumulation. Sediment accumulation and deposition of the debris over the lower slope steadily keeps the slope in a smooth state. Only strong quakes affect the more stable, moderate slope (average maximum gradients 3–4°) off southern Israel. These quakes affect the central and northern slope as do the weaker quakes, but cause slumping of large sediment slabs that heavily scars the southern slope.