Israeli Seismologist Warns of Unpreparedness for Major Earthquake
Translated & summarized from Cursorinfo by baba
A magnitude 4.5 earthquake near Eilat has highlighted Israel's lack of preparedness for a major seismic event, according to seismologist Nadav Wetzler and a State Comptroller report. Despite an early warning system, many hospitals and schools lack necessary earthquake protection, and building reinforcement programs have been slow. The risk of a major earthquake, which occurs roughly every century, remains constant, with the last significant one in 1927.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- A magnitude 4.5 earthquake near Eilat has raised concerns about Israel's seismic preparedness.
- Seismologist Nadav Wetzler warned that Israel is not ready for a major, potentially devastating earthquake.
- A January 2024 State Comptroller report found significant deficiencies in earthquake preparedness nationwide.
- Approximately 60% of Israeli hospitals and about 70% of schools needing reinforcement lack adequate protection.
- Building reinforcement programs like TAMA 38 have only reinforced 3.6% of needed structures.
- Insurance coverage for natural disaster economic consequences in Israel is significantly lower than in other developed nations.
A recent magnitude 4.5 earthquake near Eilat, felt in surrounding areas, has heightened concerns about Israel's vulnerability to a devastating seismic event. While this tremor caused no damage, it prompted the evacuation of passengers from Ramon Airport and served as a stark reminder of the potential for much stronger earthquakes. Seismologist Nadav Wetzler of the Geological Institute explained that the quake occurred near the Syrian-African Rift, a tectonic zone extending through Israel towards Turkey, known for past seismic activity. He noted that Israel's Home Front Command early warning system automatically activates for earthquakes of magnitude 4.5 and above, which is why residents received alerts. Wetzler emphasized that the risk of a major earthquake in Israel is constant, with the last significant one in 1927 near the Dead Sea, and such events occur roughly once a century. "The danger of a major earthquake always exists. The earth is constantly active, and it is important that we are prepared for any scenario," Wetzler stated.
Despite the early warning system, Israel's overall preparedness for a major earthquake remains insufficient, according to a January 2024 State Comptroller report. The report found little progress in the five years since a 2018 review, highlighting that approximately 60% of Israeli hospitals lack adequate earthquake protection. The TAMA 38 program, designed to reinforce older buildings, has also fallen short, reinforcing only 3.6% of needed structures. This situation is particularly acute in areas distant from central Israel, where infrastructure renewal projects are less economically attractive for developers.
The State Comptroller's audit also identified thousands of unprotected buildings in northern and eastern municipalities, including Beit She'an, Tiberias, Safed, Kiryat Shmona, and Hazor Ha'glilit, where 93% of buildings requiring reinforcement remained vulnerable. Educational infrastructure is also affected, with necessary reinforcements not completed in about 70% of schools needing them. Furthermore, insurance coverage for the economic consequences of natural disasters is inadequate, covering only about 44% of risks in Israel, compared to much higher rates in countries like New Zealand, the UK, and Belgium. Following the Eilat tremors, the IDF announced preparations for a catastrophic scenario.
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