Android users can now benefit from an enhanced safety feature with the launch of Android Earthquake Alerts. Google has expanded the reach of its Earthquake Alert system across the US. This significant expansion brings early warning alerts to all 50 states and 6 US territories, aimed at helping millions of users prepare for earthquakes.
Google launched the Android Earthquake Alerts System in 2020. The company has been working with key partners such as the United States Geological Survey (USGS), California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (CalOES), and the ShakeAlert system on this. Initially available only in California, Oregon, and Washington, this expansion leverages the accelerometers built into Android phones to detect and analyse seismic activity across the entire country.
This life-saving feature is not new to many users outside the US. In fact, Google introduced the Android Earthquake Alert System in India last year, where it has been successfully providing early warnings and enhancing earthquake preparedness.
The system operates by using data from both traditional seismometers and crowdsourced inputs from Android devices. When phones detect vibrations indicating potential earthquakes, the system processes this information to provide timely alerts. This dual approach ensures that users receive warnings even in regions where traditional seismometer coverage is limited.
“To supplement these existing government earthquake alert systems and bring early warnings to places that do not have USGS ShakeAlert®, this expansion uses the built-in accelerometers in Android phones to bring another layer of preparedness and potentially life-saving information to people across every state,” Google explains about the system
Two types of alerts will be sent to Android devices when an earthquake of magnitude 4.5 or greater is detected:
- “Be Aware” Alert: This notification warns of weak or light shaking, giving users a heads-up to prepare for potentially stronger tremors.
- “Take Action” Alert: This signal indicates moderate to severe shaking is expected, urging users to take immediate steps to protect themselves.
Once the shaking subsides, users can access additional safety tips and earthquake information through Google Search by simply searching for “Earthquake near me.”
To activate the system, go to Settings on your phone. Tap Safety & emergency and then Earthquake alerts. If you don’t see Safety & emergency, tap Location and then Advanced and then Earthquake alerts. Turn Earthquake alerts on or off.
