The Ailao Shan drainage divide is migrating northeastwards in response to the late Cenozoic kinematic reversal of the Red River Fault, southeastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau

Key Points

• The drainage divide is migrating northeastwards due to geological shifts.
• Key evidence shows a significant kinematic reversal of the Red River Fault impacting local drainage patterns.
• Observational analysis revealed alterations in the drainage system linked to tectonic activities in the region.
• This finding highlights the dynamic interplay between tectonics and topography, suggesting ongoing geological evolution.