Archive · 17 Sep 2025
Earthquake Prediction Still Unpredictable, Says Seismology Expert
Imagine the Earth is like a big puzzle, and earthquakes are like when the puzzle pieces suddenly shift.
Scientists are working hard to figure out when and where these shifts will happen.
They've made progress, like knowing where the most likely places are, but they can't say exactly when an earthquake will occur.
Some people thought animals could predict quakes, but that's not always true.
The best thing to do is be prepared, like having strong buildings, just in case!
Small quakes can help release energy, which can be a good thing to prevent major damage.
Dr. OP Mishra, of National Centre for Seismology, says earthquake prediction is still inexact.
Scientists can identify earthquake-prone zones but not predict timing or magnitude.
India collaborates with other countries on earthquake research.
Research on animal behavior for prediction is inconclusive.
Preparedness, like earthquake-resistant buildings, is the best approach.
- Who
- Dr. OP Mishra, Director of the National Centre for Seismology
- What
- Discussion on earthquake prediction and the importance of preparedness.
- When
- Interview conducted on September 17.
- Where
- Guwahati, India.
- Why
- To address the current state of earthquake prediction and preparedness.
- Expert
- Dr. OP Mishra, Director of National Centre for Seismology
- Focus
- Earthquake prediction and preparedness
- Research Stage
- Crossed three stages, fourth (predicting epicenter, timing, magnitude) not yet achieved
- Collaborative Research
- India collaborates with Japan, China, Taiwan, Russia, etc.
- Preparedness
- Best approach due to inability to predict or prevent quakes
- Microzonation
- Guwahati, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Gangtok completed; Itanagar in next phase