Integrated Geophysical and Morphotectonic Survey of the Impact of Ghab Extensional Tectonics on the Qastoon Dam, Northwestern Syria

The latent impact of the Ghab pull-apart basin tectonic setting and associated deformations resulting from active tectonics on the Qastoon Dam in northern Ghab in Syria have been evaluated. This was achieved by applying an appropriate methodology essentially based on morphotectonic mapping and integrated geophysical surveys consisting of electrical resistivity profiling, vertical electrical sounding and self-potential. The integrated interpretation of the acquired morphotectonic and geophysical data allowed the detection of subsurface deformed structures, either underlying the Qastoon Dam lake floor, or close to it. It is believed that these active structures were developed through the ongoing active tectonic processes occurring in the Northern Arabian plate. The tectonic survey proved that the N66.5°E striking Wadi Al Mashta fault, extending beneath the Qastoon Dam lake floor, is one of the youngest active structures, and that the intersection of the fault with the Qastoon Dam prism is a water-leaking point. Dam supporting measures, continuous monitoring and precautious disaster management are therefore recommended to be urgently adopted and practiced.