  An alternative earthquake mechanism is proposed. The traditional stress
mechanism of fracture formation assigned a support role. As a proximate cause
of the earthquake the destruction of the roofs of sub-horizontal
fluid-saturated bodies (SHFB) is considered. This collapse may occur due to
redistribution of fluid pressure within the system of SHFB connected by cracks
(tectonic or other nature). It can cause both shifts of rock blocks
contributing to seismic shocks and various effects characteristic of foreshocks
and aftershocks.
