Google’s Android Earthquake Alert System: Enhancing Safety in India
In a significant step towards enhancing disaster preparedness, Google, in collaboration with India’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and National Seismology Center (NSC), introduced the Android Earthquake Alert System in India on September 27. This system, previously deployed in multiple countries, aims to provide early warnings to individuals when seismic activity begins. Let’s delve into the details of this groundbreaking initiative.
What is Android Earthquake Alert System?
The Android Earthquake Alert System leverages the sensors within Android smartphones to detect and estimate earthquakes. It relies on the internet to transmit emergency alerts to Android devices located in areas where significant ground movements may occur during an earthquake. Additionally, the system enhances public awareness by providing information about nearby seismic events and safety guidelines through Google Search results.
How the Earthquake Alert System Operates?
Most Android devices are equipped with accelerometer sensors that can detect changes in device orientation. These sensors function as miniature seismometers, enabling them to detect the initial tremors of an earthquake when the device is connected to a charger. When multiple devices detect earthquake-like motion simultaneously, Google’s servers utilize this data to estimate the occurrence of an earthquake, including its epicentre and magnitude. Subsequently, alerts are dispatched to nearby smartphones via the internet. Due to the rapid speed of internet signals, these alerts often reach smartphones several seconds before the onset of severe shaking.
Types of Alert Notifications
Google offers two types of notifications through the Earthquake Alert System: ‘Be Aware’ and ‘Take Action’ alerts. These notifications are exclusively sent for earthquakes with a magnitude of 4.5 or higher.
– ‘Be Aware’ Notification: This alert is designed to inform individuals about light shaking and provides additional information when tapped. It adheres to the notification settings on a device, including the volume level.
– ‘Take Action’ Alert: This notification is intended to capture the user’s attention before they experience moderate to heavy shaking. It disregards individual smartphone notification settings, activating the display and emitting a loud sound. Tapping on this alert offers safety guidance, including steps to minimize earthquake-related damage, alongside a map displaying the earthquake’s location, epicentre, and magnitude.
Accessibility and User Requirements
The Android Earthquake Alert system is available to Android users in India with devices running Android version 5 (Lollipop) or higher. To receive earthquake alerts, users must enable location services on their Android smartphones, along with Wi-Fi or cellular data connectivity. Additionally, users retain the option to disable alert notifications through their device settings.
Google’s Android Earthquake Alert System marks a significant stride in bolstering India’s disaster preparedness and response capabilities. By harnessing the widespread presence of Android smartphones and their built-in sensors, this system empowers individuals with vital early warnings during seismic events. With its ‘Be Aware’ and ‘Take Action’ alerts, it caters to varying levels of earthquake intensity, ensuring that users are adequately informed and can take necessary precautions. As this technology becomes accessible to Android users across India, it holds the potential to save lives and minimize damage in the event of earthquakes.
