Technology: Preventing Quakes from Becoming Disasters

In the wake of the earthquake in China that has killed tens of thousands of people, attention has again turned to the significant lack of prediction technology that persists, in spite of years of research. NASA researchers, however, have recently announced the discovery of a close connection between electrical disturbances in the atmosphere and imminent seismic activity on the ground. NASA is collaborating with British scientists to study the potential for a space-based early warning system using this newfound data.

Erik Sofge of Popular Mechanics breaks down quake preparation into three elements: forecasting, detection, and engineering. In the U.S., EarthScope is working to set up thousands of sensors across the country, ranging from portable seismometers to GPS receivers, to better understand and forecast seismic activity. In Japan, an unprecedented network of more than 4,000 seismic sensors has been established that detects ruptures close to the epicenter and sends a signal to disseminate an automatic warning to residents via television, radio, and even the Internet just before the shaking starts.

The fact remains, however, that it is still nearly impossible to predict when an earthquake will occur. Thus, preparatory engineering and sound infrastructure remain vital to reducing the damage caused by earthquakes. Materials such as flexible concrete can save money and, more importantly, lives. But even when such engineering is not feasible, simply adhering to safety standards and enforcing building codes can mean the difference between just an earthquake and a disaster.

For more information, check out Wired’s look at the use of laptops in earthquake prediction.