Google expands Android earthquake alerts to more than 200 countries, including the Dominican Republic

Google announced the expansion of its earthquake alert system for Android phones, which is now available in more than 200 countries and regions, including the Dominican Republic. The tool seeks to warn users about seismic movements and facilitate the adoption of protective measures.

The expansion, announced on October 15th, increases the service’s coverage from 98 to more than 200 territories, with the addition of countries such as Panama and Guatemala. The company reported that, since the system’s launch in 2021, it has sent more than one billion alerts to mobile devices in different parts of the world.

Android earthquake alerts use sensors built into phones to identify vibrations that could be related to an earthquake. When multiple devices detect movements consistent with seismic activity, the system processes the information to estimate the location and magnitude of the phenomenon.

This mechanism allows sending notifications to users located in areas that could be affected, in some cases seconds before they perceive the most intense shaking.

How do earthquake alerts work?

The system leverages mobile phone accelerometers, sensors that allow for the detection of movement and changes in the device’s position.

When an earthquake occurs, these sensors can identify the first seismic waves and transmit information to Google’s servers, where the data received from multiple phones is analyzed.

Based on that information, the platform calculates the approximate characteristics of the movement, determines the areas where it could be felt, and sends alerts to compatible devices.

Google explained that notifications are presented in three modes, depending on the estimated intensity of the movement: “Attention,” for light tremors; “Be prepared,” when stronger shaking is expected, and “Take action,” which appears in full screen given the possibility of moderate or intense movement.

Earthquake alert improvements

As part of the announced improvements, Google will incorporate additional information into “Get Ready” type alerts over the coming months.

These notifications will include a map of the area where the movement has been detected, the estimated magnitude of the earthquake, and recommendations on the safety measures that users should adopt.

They will also allow consulting updated information about the seismic event as new data becomes available.

The company specified that the system cannot detect all earthquakes and that notifications may be received before, during, or after the shaking begins, depending on the characteristics of the event and the user’s location.

Activate earthquake alerts

Android phone users in the Dominican Republic can check if they have this feature enabled from their device settings.

To do this, you must go to Settings, select Safety & emergency, and look for the Earthquake alerts option. On some models, the tool can be found within the location settings.

The service is enabled by default in supported countries, although to receive notifications it is necessary to have an internet connection via mobile data or Wi-Fi.

The availability of this technology is relevant for the Dominican Republic due to its location in a region of seismic activity, where citizen preparedness and timely access to information constitute important elements for reducing risks.

However, Google alerts do not replace official seismic monitoring systems or the guidance of civil protection agencies. Their function is to provide an additional warning that allows citizens to take preventive measures in the event of a possible earthquake.