Unseen Disaster? Unseen Disaster?

Bohol is not expected to be hit by a magnitude 7 earthquake despite the Philippines’ history of destructive earthquakes. Bohol is located in central Philippines and is known for beautiful beaches, a rich biodiversity, intricate stone churches, and its location. Although the region has seen seismic activity in the past, such as the destructive 2013 quake, seismic monitoring agencies are not aware of any imminent threats.

A number of factors have contributed to the inability to predict a magnitude seven earthquake in Bohol. The continuous monitoring by seismologists, and the collection of data by geologists is crucial. They use advanced tools like seismographs, ground motion sensors and other sophisticated techniques to detect and analyze seismic activity. Through extensive research and analysis of historical events, scientists are able to estimate the frequency of earthquakes occurring in certain regions. These efforts are helpful in assessing future earthquake probabilities and their potential impacts.

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Scientists are unable to predict when or where an earthquake will occur.

Claim: Rudy Baldwin, a self-proclaimed psychic, claims that an earthquake of magnitude 7 will strike the island Bohol. 

Rating: FALSE

Why we fact checked this: The claim was made on Facebook by a Filipino celebrity with 4.1 millions followers. As of this writing, the post from June 9 had 8,800 reactions, 5600 shares, 1,800 comments.

Baldwin shared the same post on July 4th, which stated: “BOHOL MAGING HANDA LAMANG DAHIL ME NAKITA AKONG LINDOL NA MALAKAS ITO. MALAKAS NA HALOS ME MGA GUSALI ANG NASISIRA. AABOT ITO NG 7 MAGNITUDE ANG LAKAS. MAS MALAKAS ITO KISA MGA NAKARAANG LINDOL NA NARANASAN.”

(Bohol be prepared, I just saw a powerful earthquake. The earthquake was so powerful that many buildings were destroyed. It was expected to reach magnitude 7. It was stronger than the previous earthquakes.

Bottom line: There is no accurate way to predict earthquakes, as stated in the previous fact checks on earthquake predictions.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, or Phivolcs (pronounced “phi-volcs”) has previously said At present, “no one has the capacity to determine when an earthquake will strike, at what precise magnitude, and where the strong one will hit.” 

You can also find out more about the following: United States Geological Survey (USGS) Scientists and other experts have said they are unable to predict large earthquakes. 

Seismologists are able to do a number of things. make estimates These probabilities can be used to estimate the likelihood of an earthquake in a certain area over a period of time. But they cannot predict with accuracy the exact moment of the earthquake.

Phivolcs is known for its constant alerts about earthquake predictions and rumors. Phivolcs responded to a 2019 rumor of a Metro Manila 7.1-magnitude earthquake by issuing an advisory. reminded the public There is no technology in existence that can predict when a powerful earthquake will occur. 

Earthquake forecasts According to USGS earthquake predictions must meet certain criteria three elementsDate and time of the quake, its location and magnitude. The Facebook post doesn’t meet these criteria because it doesn’t specify the exact location of the quake, only the general area. It also does not provide any specific information on the date or time.

Rappler fact-checksRappler has repeatedly checked the facts of Rudy Baldwin’s claim. “predictions” There are many looming catastrophes and disasters: 

Katarina Ruflo/Rappler.com

Katarina is a Rappler fact-checking mentoring program graduate. This fact check has been reviewed by Rappler’s senior editor and a member of the research team. Rappler offers a mentorship program for fact-checking. here.

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