The earthquakes in real time They arouse great concern and curiosity, both among those who live in risk areas and among geology enthusiasts. Thanks to advances in technology and the existence of global surveillance networks, it is now possible. obtain immediate information about tremors that occur anywhere on the planet. Being aware of this activity is essential for the risk management and civil protection in the face of a situation that, due to its unexpectedness and suddenness, may have serious consequences.
The surveillance of earthquakes in real time not only allows you to consult magnitude and location data Earthquakes don't just happen, but have become a basic tool for adopting preventive measures in homes, schools, and workplaces. Although it is not possible to predict exactly when or where the next major tremor will occur, it is possible to minimize the risk and act quickly if you have the necessary knowledge. reliable and fast information.
How to track earthquakes instantly: official maps, networks, and platforms
El seismic monitoring relies on national and international networks, such as the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the National Geographic Institute (IGN) in Spain or the National Seismological Center in Chile. These institutions offer interactive maps where you can view recent seismic activity in real time, with details such as time, epicenter, magnitude and depth of each event.
In places like the Canary Islands, the IGN, together with the Canary Islands Volcanological Institute (INVOLCAN), maintain constant surveillance to detect tremors that, although generally low in intensity, are of particular interest due to the archipelago's volcanic context. The analyses include both land and sea seismic movements and allow for consult the updated data through their websites.
Chile y Mexico, countries located in tectonically very active areas such as the Pacific Ring of Fire, also have highly developed systems for collecting and disseminating seismic information. The live monitoring offered by official services helps the population to be aware of the situation. forewarned and well-informed at all times.
Applications and warning systems: the mobile phone as an earthquake detector
One of the biggest advances in recent years has been the possibility of receive seismic alerts on your mobile phone in real time. On Android devices, for example, there's an "Earthquake Alerts" feature that uses the phone's accelerometer to detect movement. If multiple people experience the same shock, an automatic, mass alert is sent to those in the affected area.
ShakeAlert and similar networks integrate sensors distributed across key seismic zones (such as the US West Coast) and combine this data with information collected from millions of smartphones. This creates a global collaborative network in which each mobile acts as a small seismograph, contributing to early detection and sending warnings before the tremor reaches inhabited areas.
Not only Android offers this type of system: there are Free apps like My Earthquake Alerts & Feed, SkyAlert, Earthquake Detector, Earthquake, and Earthquakes Today, available in several countries and with options for different needs. Some of them allow you to configure custom notifications, access intensity maps and consult civil protection recommendations in real time.
The fundamental role of seismic alerts and immediate dissemination
In countries like Mexico, the seismic sensor network extends from Jalisco to the Isthmus of Tehuantepec and alerts cities such as Guadalajara, Acapulco, Puebla, Oaxaca and Mexico City in a matter of seconds. This system, managed by the Center for Seismic Instrumentation and Recording (CIRES), It can make the difference between reacting in time or being surprised by the earthquake..
It's important to emphasize that alerts are only activated when sensors detect a certain magnitude and specific circumstances. Therefore, if an earthquake is very shallow or the epicenter is very close to a city, the warning could arrive at the same time as the seismic waves. However, these networks save lives and prevent further damage.
There is no system today capable of predict earthquakes, but it is possible to provide warning seconds in advance thanks to these early warning mechanisms. Keeping them activated and consulting official sources is essential to avoid falling for hoaxes and responding effectively.
Major recent earthquakes and how to check current activity
Real-time information has allowed us to closely monitor not only historical earthquakes, but also the latest recorded events in places like Spain, Mexico, Chile, and the Canary Islands. For example, the IGN has recently detected seismic swarms in Tenerife and La Palma, while the SSN in Mexico closely monitors daily earthquakes, many of them of low magnitude, without consequences for the population.
To access this data, simply visit the official websites of each organization:
- IGN (Spain): www.ign.es
- Red Simica National (Spain)
- INVOLCAN (Canary Islands): www.involcan.org
- USGS (US): earthquake.usgs.gov
- National Seismological Center (Chile)
- SSN (Mexico)
Additionally, you can receive real-time alerts through apps or activate the corresponding feature on your Android or iPhone from the location and notifications settings.
Tips for action before, during, and after an earthquake
Prevention remains the best strategy for dealing with earthquakes. A series of measures should be adopted. basic recommendations provided by organizations such as the National Center for Disaster Prevention (CENAPRED):
- Before: Create a family civil protection plan, identify safe zones at home and at work, prepare an emergency backpack, and conduct regular drills.
- During: Stay calm, seek shelter in protected areas (under sturdy tables, next to structural walls), and stay away from windows and objects that could fall. If you're outside, stay away from utility poles and facades; if you're driving, stop your car far from bridges or tunnels.
- After: Check for structural damage before returning to your home, avoid lighting fires if you suspect a gas leak, use your phone only for emergencies, be alert for aftershocks, and always follow the instructions of the authorities.
The recommendations and real-time information on earthquakes are essential tools to act effectively and minimize risks in these natural events.
