Abstract: Using the GPS velocity field from the campaign GPS measurement implemented by CMONC (China Crustal Movement Observation) and TEONC (China Tectonic Environment Observation Networks) up to 2013, we first analyzed the background of regional crustal horizontal movement and deformation before Yutian M_S7.3 earthquake in Xinjiang, which occurred on 12 February 2014. Then, we analyzed the crustal movement deformation and state of strain accumulation at the northeastern edge of Tibet, by comparing to the vertical movement from leveling measurement. Finally, we investigated the earthquake activity at the northeastern edge of Tibet, which may be affected by Yutian M_S7.3 earthquake. The result indicated that, Yutian M_S7.3 earthquake occurred in the background of strong tectonic movement at the margins of western area and inland crustal differential movement, and also happened in the time of strong tectonic stress field in Tibet and its margins. The sinistral strike slip and stress transfer of the Yutian M_S7.3 earthquake may accelerate the rupture of fault positions with high strain accumulation at the northeastern edge of Tibet, specially in Qilianshan fracture zone, the junction of Gansu, Qinghai and Sichuan Province at the south of western Qinling).

Key words: Seismicity, The 2014 Yutian M_S7.3 earthquake, Crustal movement and deformation, Stress accumulation, The northeastern edge of Tibet