Red Sea–Afar–East African Rift System (RSEARS) WebGIS Visualization
By Thakgalo Sehlola
Data Analyst | GIS Analyst | AWS Certified
This interactive WebGIS application visualizes seismic activity along the Red Sea–Afar–East African Rift System (RSEARS)—one of the most active and scientifically significant continental rift zones on Earth. The project was developed as part of the #30DayMapChallenge (Day 5: Earth) to combine real-time geospatial data with tectonic insights.
Project Overview
The map provides a dynamic lens into tectonic divergence occurring across the RSEARS by integrating historical and real-time earthquake data sourced from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) ComCat API. Users can explore how seismic events trace the boundaries where the African Plate is gradually splitting to form the Somali Plate and Nubian Plate.
Key Visualization Features
Glowing, magnitude-scaled earthquake markers
Colour-coded segments representing key rift zones:
Southern Extended
Southern Main
Northern Main
Northern Extended
A cyan overlay highlighting the broader African Rift for added geological context
Interactive Tools & Functionality
Toggle visibility of individual rift segments
Adjust minimum-magnitude filters to refine seismic data
Automatic data refresh with each filter change using the live USGS API
Responsive statistics and map rendering for an up-to-date exploration experience
Geological Significance
The RSEARS marks a vast continental rupture where Africa is slowly tearing apart. With an estimated separation rate of 2.5–7 mm per year, this rifting is projected to reshape the continent—eventually giving rise to a new ocean basin over millions of years.
Purpose of the Project
This WebGIS map blends real-time seismic monitoring, geospatial visualization, and tectonic history to help users understand one of Earth’s most dynamic geological systems. It showcases how modern GIS tools and API-driven data can reveal the deep forces shaping our planet.