المملكة: “Geological Survey” reveals strategies to reduce earthquake risks

Earthquakes are among the most dangerous natural phenomena that threaten the security and safety of societies, as they occur as a result of cracks in the earth’s crust, leading to earthquakes that may have a catastrophic impact on the areas in which they occur.
With the scientific and research development in the field of geology, international efforts have become focused on developing effective strategies to reduce these risks and mitigate their damage..
In this context, the Saudi Geological Survey confirmed that earthquakes often occur in areas with high tectonic activity, specifically on the Earth’s surface in places where tectonic plates meet.

The authority explained that some areas in the Kingdom, the Gulf of Aqaba, the Sinai Peninsula, Iran, the Gulf of Aden, and the Mediterranean region show continuous seismic activity, with the strength of seismic tremors ranging between 0.68 to 6.22 degrees on the Richter scale.

Expanding seismic monitoring

This reality highlights the importance of expanding seismic monitoring networks and developing warning systems to deal with such phenomena.
The authority indicated that the beginning of Saudi efforts in the field of seismic monitoring dates back to the 1980s, when seismic monitoring stations were established in the Arabian Gulf.
These efforts aimed to monitor seismic activity and monitor tectonic movements, which helped achieve a better understanding of the nature of seismic activity in the Kingdom and the region in general.

Today, these efforts are an integral part of the strategy to preserve lives and property and reduce earthquake risks.
Currently, all countries are seeking to establish advanced seismic monitoring networks in cooperation with international research centers, with the aim of obtaining accurate data that will help in studying seismic activity and analyzing its repercussions.
This data contributes to enhancing the ability to predict earthquakes, allowing the necessary preventive measures to be taken to reduce their impact.
The National Seismic Monitoring Network in the Kingdom, which was established under government directives, is working to establish an integrated database that includes all information related to seismic activity.

Facing natural disasters

The Authority confirmed that this network is an essential element in the system for confronting natural disasters, as it provides accurate scientific data that is used in forecasting and analysis studies and developing the necessary plans to reduce damage. On the other hand, advanced seismic studies contribute to identifying the sites most vulnerable to earthquakes and linking them to the pattern of tectonic activity.

The Authority confirmed that these studies are a key element in designing evacuation plans and implementing practical exercises to confront seismic disasters, which reduces the damage resulting from this phenomenon..
The Saudi Geological Survey indicated that international cooperation and exchange of experiences between countries is considered a fundamental pillar in developing seismic disaster management strategies.
These strategies include developing early warning systems, increasing community awareness, and providing earthquake-resistant infrastructure. The Authority also confirmed that these efforts are integrated with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which seeks to enhance the geological and environmental security of society..