Seismologist explained whether there is a risk of powerful earthquakes for Ukraine.
Seismologist Oleksandr Kendzera named the most dangerous region of Ukraine, where a high-magnitude earthquake could occur.
As "Khvylya" reports, he talked about this on TSN.
A strong earthquake recently occurred in Romania's Vrancea region. Its impact spread to Ukraine. In the Odesa region, people noticed chandeliers swinging and small objects rattling on shelves. However, local authorities claim that the earthquake did not cause any structural damage or injuries among the population.
According to Kendzera, the earthquake occurred in Romania, in the Vrancea zone, but it did not pose a threat to Ukraine this Time.
The earthquake occurred at a depth of 135 kilometers, where its epicenter is located. Therefore, it is felt on the surface over a very large area, including the southwestern regions of Ukraine and Transnistria. The earthquake was mostly felt by residents of Romania and Moldova, while in Ukraine, the tremors were recorded in the southwestern part of the Odesa region. There it was weak—no more than 2-3 points
The seismologist also noted that an earthquake of such strength cannot cause serious structural damage or other harm, only frighten people.
For Ukraine, this earthquake caused no damage. It just happened and that's it. Its magnitude in Romania is estimated from 5.2 to 5.6, and only its smaller tremors with an intensity of 2-3 points reached the southwest of the Odesa region
However, according to the expert, the threat of powerful earthquakes in Ukraine is quite possible.
Having the Vrancea zone nearby, you need to be prepared for earthquakes. A general seismic zoning map of Ukraine's territories can help with this. It clearly shows that the highest intensity of an earthquake from the Vrancea zone in Ukraine can reach 7 points. Similar shaking can be felt on third-category soils in the southwestern Odesa region
He also emphasized the importance of constructing earthquake-resistant buildings in areas prone to earthquakes. This is a key factor for minimizing potential damage. According to him, when planning and constructing buildings, data on the seismic activity of the region must be taken into account, and relevant standards strictly followed. This approach will significantly reduce risks and ensure the safety of residents in the event of tremors.
Understand that predicting an earthquake is impossible. And that it can happen—yes, of course, it can. But no one in the world has predicted, nor will predict, the exact date and magnitude. This will not yield any result. Let's imagine: the mayor of a city is informed that there will be an earthquake of 7 points tomorrow at 5 AM. What is he supposed to do? Of course, he can evacuate the entire city, but then it would be more like a false bomb threat—whether it happens or not", the expert noted.
That's why such a forecast is meaningless. Because the mayor cannot make the right decision.
It's a completely different matter when the mayor knows for sure that, theoretically, there could be an earthquake of 7 points in his city. And he will control that all buildings are constructed exclusively to be earthquake-resistant. Then the city will be able to calmly face an earthquake of 5 or 7 points. Without panic and destruction. That is what should be focused on, especially in dangerous regions where such earthquakes may occur", Kendzera added.
It was previously reported that Ukraine could find itself at the epicenter of a powerful earthquake.
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