Chile is bracing for a possible mega-earthquake, with experts forecasting a 65 percent chance of a magnitude eight quake or higher by 2026. Authorities are enhancing disaster preparedness through Early Warning Units and improved emergency alert systems, aiming to protect the population after the lessons learned from past seismic disasters.
Chile is on high alert for the possibility of a significant earthquake, with experts predicting a 65 percent chance of a magnitude eight quake or higher occurring by 2026. This assessment comes from Sergio Barrientos, the director of the National Seismological Center. Dr. Marcos Moreno of the University of Concepción’s Millennium Institute of Oceanography supports this viewpoint, citing detected deformations in the ocean floor of the Atacama Trench, indicating potential energy accumulation for a major seismic event.
In response to these warnings, the National Disaster Prevention and Response Service has implemented various safety enhancements. Alicia Cebrián, the national director of SENAPRED, highlighted the establishment of Early Warning Units across all regions to improve readiness. Additionally, they are enhancing the Emergency Alert System for cell phone users and installing over a thousand alarms along the coast to better prepare for possible tsunamis.
This urgent preparation comes as the country recalls the devastation of the 8.8-magnitude earthquake and tsunami that occurred fifteen years ago, which resulted in over 500 fatalities and left two million individuals homeless. Cebrián emphasized that the memory of the tragic event should motivate ongoing preparedness: “The memory of that February 27th should serve as a reminder to be prepared for future emergencies… preparation is the best defence against the unexpected.”
In summary, Chile is undertaking significant measures to prepare for a potential mega-earthquake, with a 65 percent likelihood of an 8.0 magnitude quake by 2026. Key initiatives include the establishment of Early Warning Units, enhancements to the Emergency Alert System, and the installation of coastal alarms. These proactive steps are a response to historical tragedies and aim to ensure public safety in anticipation of future seismic events.
Original Source: www.plenglish.com
