Week 3
Ireland’s Earthquakes
After doing some research I’ve found that Ireland does not really have earthquakes often. They are almost non existent. In fact, for the past thirty years there have only been about 80 small earthquakes. (http://www.newstalk.com/Ireland-on-shaky-ground-with-earthquakes-and-tsunamis-)
One of Ireland’s largest earthquake happened in 1984. However, this earthquake was a 5.4 and only caused slight structural damage near the east coast of Ireland. A geologist has previously said that an earthquake of this stature would be highly unlikely. (http://www.independent.ie/irish-news/irelands-earthquake-explained-29305938.html)
According to our textbook there are quite a few ways that countries can protect themselves against earthquakes. For example, a lot of places have structural protections (ie buildings that are capable of of withstanding a bit of shaking). (Keller/DeVecchio, 92) Places like San Francisco and Los Angeles where earthquakes are common have very reinforce buildings, as well as increased earthquake insurance, and relief measures. (Keller/DeVecchio, 92)
However, due to the fact that Ireland has little to no earthquakes at all, they really do not do anything to protect themselves. The only aspect they have is a seismometer that shows all the tiny (<1.5) earthquakes Ireland has. (https://www.insn.ie/confirmed/)
Hello Micayle,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed your post. Ireland seems like an interesting country to research. My country, Portugal has many small earthquakes as well. I found it interesting that both of our countries have had one major earthquake within the past few decades. Great post!
-Taylor
Hi Micayle
ReplyDeleteAs I was reading your post it reminded me of my country, England.
We're both on the same plate, nowhere near a plate boundary, which is why the earthquakes are not of much magnitude.
This sounds like a great country to live at, specially for me that I'm terrified of ever experiencing an earthquake.
Angela
Hi Micayle,
ReplyDeleteIt's true, you don't really hear about earthquakes happening in Ireland. I also find it crazy that they don't have any real protection plans against earthquakes, countries should always be prepared. My country, Australia, is similar in the infrequency of any major earthquakes. Thanks for the interesting post!