Earthquake Today: In the wake of the recent 7.1 magnitude earthquake that struck Nepal early Tuesday morning, it is a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness. The tremors, which were felt in parts of India such as Bihar, West Bengal, and the Delhi-NCR region, occurred at 6:35 am, about 93 kilometres northeast of Lobuche, near the Nepal-Tibet border, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Additionally, Chinese officials reported a 6.8 magnitude earthquake in Shigatse City, Tibet, as per Reuters.
One of the most effective ways to stay informed is by enabling earthquake alerts on your smartphone.
How Do Earthquake Alerts On Smartphones Work?
Modern phones are equipped with built-in accelerometers that can detect vibrations indicative of an earthquake.
These signals are processed by a central server, which then sends alerts to users in the affected region, potentially saving lives.
How To Set Up Earthquake Alerts On Android Phones
- Open the Settings app.
- Navigate to Safety and Emergency.
- Enable the Earthquake Alerts toggle.
How To Set Up Earthquake Alerts On iPhone
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Notifications.
- Scroll to the bottom and toggle on Emergency Alerts.
MyShake App For Alerts
For enhanced functionality, you can download the MyShake app, available for both Android and iOS:
- Install the app via the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Follow the setup instructions and grant location access.
- The app uses a network of ground sensors to provide alerts for earthquakes of magnitude 4.5 or higher.
How Earthquake Alert Systems Work
Google’s Earthquake Alerts System, for instance, uses two types of notifications:
- Be Aware Alerts: Triggered by mild tremors (MMI 3 & 4).
- Take Action Alerts: Sent for stronger quakes (MMI 5+), advising actions like taking cover under sturdy furniture.
While no technology can predict earthquakes, these alert systems provide crucial seconds to act and ensure safety, proving to be invaluable tools in areas prone to seismic activity.