Google Admits Earthquake Alert System Failed Millions During Turkey’s 2023 Quake.
Google has admitted that its earthquake early warning system failed to deliver timely alerts to millions of people during the catastrophic 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Turkey in 2023.
Although nearly 10 million people were within 160 km of the epicentre — a range eligible for Google’s highest-level alert that can provide up to 35 seconds of warning — only 469 “Take Action” alerts were issued. These alerts are designed to prompt immediate safety measures, such as dropping to the ground or taking cover.
Instead, Google said around 500,000 people received a less prominent notification meant for “light shaking,” which does not trigger an audible alarm or strong on-screen prompt.
In a statement to the BBC, the tech giant acknowledged the lapse, stating that the system did not perform as expected and that it is investigating the reasons behind the failure. No further technical explanation was provided.
The failure has sparked concerns over the reliability of digital alert systems in high-risk seismic zones, particularly in a disaster that claimed tens of thousands of lives across Turkey and Syria.
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