Google’s Android Earthquake Alerts System has been introduced in India, providing citizens with real-time alerts of earthquake activity. The system detects initial tremors using accelerometers in Android devices and sends out speedy alerts, promising to improve disaster preparedness and protect lives and property from earthquakes.
Google’s extremely useful earthquake alert system is making its way to India. The feature, which was first revealed in 2020, is now available in India. Google introduced the Android Earthquake Alerts System in a blog post, in conjunction with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), Ministry of Earth Sciences. Earthquakes are a common natural disaster, and early warnings can make a significant difference in protecting people and property.The Android Earthquake Alerts System makes use of accelerometers, which are built into Android handsets. The accelerometers can be used as micro seismometers, according to the blog article.
This is how it will function.
When a plugged-in and charging Android phone detects the first tremors of an earthquake, it sends the information to a central server, according to Google. If numerous phones in the same location detect identical shaking, the server can estimate the features of the earthquake, such as its epicenter and magnitude. As a result, it quickly sends alerts to adjacent Android smartphones. These signals move at the speed of light through the internet, frequently reaching people several seconds before the more severe shaking.
The notifications are user-friendly and available in a variety of Indian languages supported by Android, guaranteeing accessibility for a diverse spectrum of users.
Which Android smartphones are supported ?
The feature will be available to Android users with devices running Android 5 or later in the coming week. Users must have Wi-Fi or cellular data connectivity, as well as enable both Android Earthquake Alerts and location settings. Earthquake Alerts can be turned off in device settings for individuals who do not want to receive them.
Furthermore, when users search for terms such as “Earthquake near me,” they will obtain appropriate information to assist them in staying safe.The collaboration between Google and the NDMA intends to supplement government efforts in providing fast earthquake notifications and safety information. Previously, Google worked with the NDMA to provide consumers with safety information about natural catastrophes like as floods and cyclones using Google Search and Maps. The launch of the Android Earthquake Alerts System demonstrates Google’s dedication to improving disaster preparedness and response in India.
This new project will provide Android users in India with early earthquake warnings, allowing them to take proper precautions and guarantee the safety of themselves and their loved ones in the case of seismic activity.
Features of the Google earthquake alert system in India:
- Early warning: The system can send alerts seconds before an earthquake arrives, giving people time to take cover.
- Accuracy: The system uses data from millions of Android smartphones to get a more accurate picture of earthquake activity.
- Availability: The system is available to all Android 5+ users in India, regardless of their mobile carrier.
How to receive earthquake alerts:
To receive earthquake alerts, you must enable the Android Earthquake Alerts System and location settings on your phone. You must also have Wi-Fi and/or cellular data connectivity.
To enable the Android Earthquake Alerts System:
- Go to your phone’s Settings app.
- Tap on Location.
- Tap on Advanced.
- Tap on Earthquake alerts.
- Toggle on the switch next to Turn on earthquake alerts.
To enable location settings:
- Go to your phone’s Settings app.
- Tap on Location.
- Toggle on the switch next to Use location.
Once you have enabled both Android Earthquake Alerts System and location settings, you will start receiving earthquake alerts on your phone.
What to do when you receive an earthquake alert:
If you receive an earthquake alert, drop, cover, and hold on. This is the best way to protect yourself during an earthquake.
If you are indoors, drop to the ground, cover your head and neck, and hold on to a sturdy object. If you are outdoors, drop to the ground and cover your head and neck with your arms.
Once the earthquake has passed, follow the instructions of local authorities.