Short Wave Can We Predict Earthquakes? (Hint: No)
Jul 26, 2021
Wendy Bohon, a geologist and Senior Science Communication Specialist at IRIS, discusses the challenges of predicting earthquakes. She shares her transformative journey from acting to earth science, motivated by her own experience during a major earthquake. The conversation dives into the difference between earthquake detection and prediction, shedding light on current limitations. Wendy highlights the importance of scientific literacy and real-time data in advancing our understanding and response to seismic events.
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From Actress to Geologist
- Wendy Bohon, a geologist, was once an actress living in Los Angeles.
- An earthquake experience, where a surfboard fell on her head, sparked her interest in geology.
Earthquake Prediction vs. Detection
- Precise earthquake prediction (location and time) is currently impossible.
- Scientists can detect earthquakes once they start, but not predict them.
Earthquake Mechanics
- Tectonic earthquakes are the most common type.
- They occur when Earth's plates move, get stuck, build stress, and then break, releasing energy as waves.