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Explained in plain English

Can we predict earthquakes?

Sadly, no. Despite advances in seismology, accurately predicting earthquakes like the one in Colombia is currently impossible. Scientists can identify areas at higher risk and estimate long term probabilities, but pinpointing the exact time, location, and magnitude of a future quake remains beyond our capabilities.

Questions this opens up

Why can't we predict them? What are early warning systems? How do we prepare?

Related explainers

What causes earthquakes? How are earthquakes measured? How do building codes work? How do buildings cope? How fast do plates move? Why do plates move? What is the 'Ring of Fire'? How does soil type affect damage?

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