When will the next earthquake occur?

Unfortunately, we don't know, but data help us to provide a rough answer. Visit us from 1 to 3 September at Scientifica, which will focus on "What Data Reveal".

Join our fact-finding tour and find out what you can yourself about when the next quake might occur. We will show you how we collect, analyse and present seismic data, for example in the form of seismic hazard maps. You can also find out your own personal earthquake story with the support of Mr & Mrs Tremble. In addition, you will have an opportunity to meet the most frequently discussed 'earthquake prophets'.

Every year, in Switzerland alone, between 2,000 and 3,000 gigabytes of seismic data are collected, analysed and archived by the Swiss Seismological Service (SED) at ETH Zurich. These data suggest patterns that enable statements to be made about earthquakes' size distribution and spatial spread. Information of these kinds serves as a basis for assessing the size of hazard and studying earthquakes' precise causes and mechanisms. Rapid evaluation of seismic data also enables the activation of so-called earthquake early warning systems. Since seismic waves spread more slowly than electromagnetic waves, warnings can be sent to more distant areas as soon as a number of seismic stations registers a quake in their vicinity.