On March 28, a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake rocked central Myanmar, leading to widespread destruction and over 3,500 fatalities. The tremors were felt as far as Bangkok, where videos captured water cascading from rooftop pools due to building sways. While it's impossible to predict when or where the next significant quake will strike, many beloved travel spots, including California, Japan, Italy, and Mexico, are located in seismically active regions. For those planning to visit these areas, being informed and prepared is key to safety.
Leverage technology before traveling to an earthquake-prone area. Conduct thorough research regarding the historical seismic activity of your chosen destination. Check for local agencies that provide emergency information and whether there are earthquake early-warning systems available. These systems utilize networks of sensors to detect significant quakes, allowing for real-time alerts that can provide essential seconds to prepare. “Seconds matter,” states Sara McBride, a scientist at the U.S. Geological Survey.
In addition to general information, consider downloading specialized apps that provide push notifications for earthquakes, such as SASSLA for Mexico, SafetyTips or NERV for Japan, and MyShake in the United States. Also, it’s wise to enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program and share your travel itinerary with friends or family, as tremors may disrupt communication lines.
Being proactive, informed, and equipped with the right tools can make all the difference when navigating the unpredictability of earthquake zones during your travels.
