With new tremor, Google’s earthquake alert showed its usefulness again: learn how to activate it | Más Colombia
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With new tremor, Google’s earthquake alert showed its usefulness again: learn how to activate it

The earthquake alert function, which all devices with Android operating system have, anticipated for seconds the strong tremor that occurred in the center of the country and led authorities to close the Bogotá - Villavicencio road. We tell you how to activate it.
earthquake alert, earthquake 17 of august 2023, epicenter of the tremor, Meta, Colombian Geological Survey, Más Colombia

The earthquake that struck Colombia this morning continues to be a topic of conversation. The National Geological Service reported that the first earthquake, which occurred at 12:04 a.m., had a magnitude of 6.1 and its epicenter was located in El Calvario, Meta.

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Then, several aftershocks were recorded, with magnitudes between 5.6 and 4.2.

The notifications that many users received on their cell phones have also caused a stir. This is a Google feature offered by Android devices that can be enabled at no cost.

The notification provides information on the estimated magnitude, the distance of the epicenter and some essential recommendations, such as wearing shoes, inspecting gas connections and keeping a distance from compromised structures. It also reminded of the possibility of aftershocks.

There were those who were astonished to realize that the alert came seconds before the earthquake. However, it is essential to remember that this alert does not make predictions, but that Google publishes it as soon as the first seismic waves are detected. In fact, the function clarifies that the notification can arrive “before, during or after the earthquake starts”.

You can also enable earthquake alerts or seismic alerts on your Android phone.

Android phones have earthquake alerts enabled by default on the devices. It is also possible to enable or disable it as desired.


Google sends the notification to the devices that have this alert active when it detects a seismic movement with an estimated magnitude higher than 4.5 on the Richter scale.

To check if you have it active, you can follow the steps below, although it is important to note that these may change slightly between different mobile devices.

Steps to enable earthquake alerts or seismic alerts

1. Be connected to the internet, either via mobile data or WiFi.

2. Access the “Settings” or “Configuration” section. This option is usually represented by a gear icon.

3. Enter “Location” and go to “Explore Advanced Options”. On other devices, enter “Security and Emergency”.

4. Activate the “Earthquake Alerts”. In other devices, they may appear as “Earthquake Alerts”.

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Operation of earthquake alerts or seismic alerts

Under Advanced Options, it explains that “Android uses your approximate location to send information about nearby earthquakes with a magnitude of 4.5 or greater. The ShakeAlert® (in CA, OR and WA) and Android (in all other locations) systems detect earthquakes”.

The message also clarifies that these alerts are not available in all regions, cannot detect all earthquakes, and may provide inaccurate estimates of earthquake magnitude or intensity.

In case of doubts about whether to enable it or not, the system offers the option of showing a demonstration of its operation. It also offers safety tips in case of an earthquake.

Bogotá – Villavicencio road closed due to falling material

According to reports from the Colombian Geological Service, the first earthquake felt around 12:04 today, August 17, in the central zone of the country was in the area between Bogotá and Villavicencio -in Quetame, Cundinamarca, and El Calvario, Meta-.

For this reason, authorities closed the road that communicates the capital of the Republic with the capital of Meta, where they reported falling material.

The 5.6 aftershock was located south of the first earthquake, close to Guayabetal, Cundinamarca and Villavicencio. In the municipality of Guayabetal, cracks were registered in some constructions, as well as falling videos and wall fragments.

The Colombian Geological Service indicates that, although it is not possible to be sure, it may be normal that there is another aftershock, so it invites citizens to remain calm and to make the necessary evacuations in the most organized way possible.


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