How to turn on earthquake alert on an Android phone, and why is it important? Know full information

Earthquake Alert on Android: An Earthquake is a natural disaster that can come anytime without any warning. Especially in areas like Delhi-NCR, where mild tremors are felt several times every month.

Earthquake Alert on Android: An Earthquake is a natural disaster that can come anytime without any warning. Especially in areas like Delhi-NCR, where mild tremors are felt several times every month. This area is sensitive to earthquakes as it is located close to the boundary of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. Although earthquakes cannot be stopped, but with the help of technology we can alert ourselves in advance. For this purpose, Google has developed the Android Earthquake Alerts System which is present in Android smartphones and warns users before an earthquake.

How does this system work?

This system of Google makes your phone a small earthquake detector (mini-seismometer). When your phone suddenly senses any unusual movement, it sends the data including its location to Google's server. If many nearby phones also detect similar movement, then Google confirms that an earthquake has occurred and immediately sends an alert to the users of that area.

In some areas of America like California, Oregon and Washington, Google has partnered with ShakeAlert network which gives information about earthquake with the help of more than 1600 seismic sensors.

Which alerts does Google send?

Be Aware Alert - This is for mild tremors (intensity 4.5 or more).

Take Action Alert - This is for more severe tremors. This alert also breaks the Do Not Disturb setting of your phone and immediately alerts you with a loud sound so that you can reach a safe place.

How to turn on earthquake alert in Android phone?

Step-by-step guide:

Your phone should have Android 5.0 or above version.

Keep Internet and Location services on.

Now go to Settings.

Open the Safety & Emergency section here. (If not visible, tap "Location" > "Advanced")

Now look for the Earthquake Alerts option.

If it is off, turn it on.

Once turned on, even if you are not using your phone, the alert will reach you in time. Sometimes even a few seconds of warning is enough to save lives. You can crouch on the ground, hide under sturdy furniture and keep your family safe.