Abstract:Based on GPS measurements from crustal movement observation network of China, we derive the crustal movement velocity field and strain rate for the Tibetan plateau and its surrounding areas. Preliminary analysis indicates that the distribution of current strain rate across the Tibetan plateau is consistent with long-term tectonic settings and its earthquake activities. The principal compressive strain rate, maximum shear rate and the dilation rate are in good agreement with the crustal shortening across the margin of the Tibetan plateau and the Tianshan, the approximately west-east extension in southern Tibet, and the strike slip faults in the Tibetan plateau, indicating that the strain field derived from decade-long GPS observations is compatible with long-term active settings and earthquake activities in the Tibetan plateau.