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Abstract

This study investigates ionospheric anomalies associated with two nearly synchronous moderate-to-strong earthquakes—the Mw 6.6 Cyprus and Mw 6.8 Alaska events—both occurring on January 11, 2022. Using Global Ionospheric Maps (GIM) of Total Electron Content (TEC) from the Center for Orbit Determination in Europe (CODE), TEC variations are monitored over a 31-day window (December 27, 2021, to January 26, 2022). Fourier spectral transformation combined with statistical thresholding is applied to detect anomalous ionospheric behavior. A total of 11 TEC anomaly days are identified for the Cyprus event and 14 for Alaska, with 3- and 2-day lead times, respectively, suggesting possible seismo-ionospheric precursors. To evaluate non-seismic drivers, the anomalies are further examined against solar and geomagnetic conditions, including solar wind velocity, interplanetary magnetic field (IMF), prompt penetration electric fields (PPEFs), Dst index variations, as well as anthropogenic and volcanic influences. Results indicate that many anomalies cannot be solely explained by external space weather drivers, supporting the hypothesis of lithosphere-atmosphere–ionosphere coupling. In particular, previously reported mechanisms—such as radon-induced atmospheric ionization, piezoelectric and electro-kinetic processes in stressed rocks, and the upward propagation of acoustic-gravity waves—provide a plausible physical basis for the observed TEC disturbances. This comparative analysis highlights the global nature of seismo-ionospheric interactions, even under differing tectonic and geomagnetic settings. The main significant catch of the work is that two different events, occurring simultaneously in completely different locations, left similar (almost identical) signatures. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating statistical anomaly detection with physical interpretation, contributing to the development of multi-parameter frameworks for short-term earthquake forecasting using ionospheric observations.

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