How can I benefit from the ShakeAlert EEW System
In addition to alerting cell phones, a number of different Technical Partners have begun pilot testing and implementing ShakeAlert Earthquake Early Warning integrations that make the services that they provide safer for the general public. Some examples of automated warning implementation include: slowing trains to prevent derailment; stopping elevators at the nearest floor and opening doors; opening firehouse doors so they are not stuck shut; throttling water utility valves to prevent emptying of reservoirs; and activating backup generators at hospitals to ensure continued service. Keep an eye on our social media feeds (@CaltechSeismo) for news releases and highlights when organizations announce new implementation efforts!
How can I get ShakeAlert EEW on my phone?
If you are in California, visit the official Earthquake Warning California webpage where you can get more California specific resources, downloads, and information all in one place. Visit Earthquake Warning California or directly download and use ShakeAlert-powered EEW mobile phone apps by visiting the Google Play or App Store and searching for “MyShake” or “ShakeReadySD”. All apps are available for free and can be easily downloaded and installed on Android and iOS devices. Once the app is installed, you can enable push notifications to receive early warning alerts when an earthquake above a set magnitude is detected in your area. The MyShake app is also available in Oregon and Washington.
Android phones have ShakeAlert-powered Alerts built into the operating system. Android operating system alerts are available in California, Oregon, and Washington, and no download is necessary.
ShakeAlert-powered Alerts are also issued via the Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) system. WEA alerts can reach most modern mobile phones in California, Oregon, and Washington. However, WEA alerts may not be as fast as alerts delivered through other methods, so downloading mobile apps and/or using Android operating system alerts is encouraged.
What are the common alert thresholds used in ShakeAlert?
Different alert-delivery mechanisms and partners use different predetermined criteria for issuing ShakeAlert-powered Alerts, where alerts are issued to the locations estimated to experience a given intensity threshold for earthquakes with magnitude estimates above a given threshold. Here is a list of the different alert thresholds used for ShakeAlert-powered alerts:
