Chile faces a high risk of a magnitude 8.0 or greater earthquake by 2026, according to experts. The National Disaster Prevention and Response Service is improving safety measures, including establishing Early Warning Units. Recent commemorations of past earthquakes emphasize the need for enhanced preparedness to protect against future disasters.
Chile is bracing for a potentially catastrophic mega-earthquake, with a 65 percent likelihood of a magnitude 8.0 or greater quake occurring by 2026, as indicated by Sergio Barrientos, director of the National Seismological Center. This prediction is supported by Dr. Marcos Moreno from the Millennium Institute of Oceanography, who reports that geological activity in the Atacama Trench suggests a significant earthquake could soon take place.
In response to these alarming forecasts, the National Disaster Prevention and Response Service (SENAPRED) has been implementing extensive safety measures. Key initiatives include the establishment of Early Warning Units across various regions, enhancing the overall emergency preparedness of the nation. These units aim to ensure timely alerts during natural disasters.
Additionally, the Emergency Alert System (SAE) is being utilized to send messages to mobile phones, bolstering evacuation procedures in the event of a tsunami. There are ongoing efforts to install over a thousand alarms along the coast to further protect residents and visitors from potential tidal waves.
This issue has gained increased attention as Chile recently commemorated the 15th anniversary of the devastating 8.8-magnitude earthquake and its follow-up tsunami, which resulted in over 500 fatalities and two million displaced individuals. Alicia Cebrián, national director of SENAPRED, emphasized that lessons from past events should inspire continued improvements in disaster readiness and sustainable practices that prioritize the welfare of the community.
In conclusion, Chile is actively preparing for the possibility of a major earthquake, bolstered by scientific predictions and significant government initiatives aimed at improving national safety. The creation of early warning systems, enhanced emergency protocols, and the installation of alarm systems are critical components of the country’s strategy to mitigate risks posed by seismic activities. The memories of past disasters serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of preparedness in safeguarding lives.
Original Source: www.plenglish.com
