Scientists Say a New Continental Rift Is Forming in Zambia
A new study reveals that Sub-Saharan Africa may be starting to split apart along the Kafue Rift in Zambia, a process that could take millions of years. Researchers found geochemical evidence of mantle material reaching the surface, suggesting the early stages of a new tectonic plate boundary forming.
Early Signs of Continental Splitting
Sub-Saharan Africa could split up in a few million years along the Kafue Rift, which is part of a roughly 1,500-mile-long rift line spanning from Tanzania to Namibia.
Key Evidence
Earthquakes too faint to be felt by people, increased underground temperature, and minute changes in elevation spotted with satellites all suggest that the area may be tectonically active. A new study published in Frontiers in Earth Science provides "the first geochemical data from this area" which "really strengthens the idea that we have rift activity in the area."
How It Works
Since material from the mantle can reach the surface as tectonic plates stretch and begin to split apart, the study team believes this new geochemical data may serve as an early signal hinting at the formation of a new plate boundary.