After Myanmar earthquake that killed thousands, experts warn India faces risk: How to activate Google's Android earthquake alert system on your phone

A catastrophic 7.7 magnitude earthquake recently claimed over 2,000 lives in Myanmar, plunging the world into grief. Meanwhile, Japan has been sounding the alarm about a potential megaquake that could wreak havoc and claim nearly 300,000 lives. However, as the Economic Times notes, these warnings aren’t just far-off concerns—they hit closer to home for India, where experts have long flagged a similar seismic threat simmering in the Himalayas, poised to unleash a massive, overdue quake at any moment.

As experts told Economic Times, while Japan’s earthquake-prone reputation is well-established, India faces its own peril, particularly in the Himalayas. Dubbed the Great Himalayan Earthquake, a massive quake in this region is a looming certainty. American geophysicist Roger Bilham told TOI in 2020, “Two or more regions of the Himalayas must soon rupture in a great earthquake. It is not a matter of ‘possibly’. They must occur.” He explained that India’s tectonic plate is inching beneath Tibet, but friction locks this motion until it releases in a devastating snap.

Researcher Steven G. Wesnousky told PTI, “It would not be a surprise if the next great earthquake occurred in our lifetimes.” Indian seismologist Supriyo Mitra reinforced this, noting that Himalayan faults are primed for an 8-plus magnitude event, though its timing remains elusive. As weather experts say, these seismic risks -- spanning Myanmar, Japan, and India -- highlight the urgent need for vigilance and preparation in regions.

How to activate Google's Android earthquake alert system on your smartphone
Earthquakes can strike without warning, but a few seconds of advance notice can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety. Google’s Android Earthquake Alert System transforms your smartphone into a mini-seismometer, detecting tremors and sending timely alerts to help you prepare. Available in many countries, including India, this free feature leverages your phone’s sensors to detect earthquakes of magnitude 4.5 or higher, providing critical warnings before shaking begins. Here’s a step-by-step guide to activating this life-saving tool on your Android device, along with tips to ensure it works effectively.

Before activating the system, ensure your phone meets these basic requirements:
* Android Version: Your device must run Android 5.0 or higher.

* Internet Connection: Wi-Fi or cellular data is necessary for receiving alerts.

* Location Services: Your phone’s location settings must be enabled for accurate detection and alert delivery.

Step-by-Step Guide to Activating Earthquake Alerts
Follow these simple steps to turn on Google’s Android Earthquake Alert System:

* Open the Settings App: Locate and tap the Settings app. This is typically found in your app drawer or home screen.

* Navigate to Safety & Emergency: Scroll through the Settings menu and select Safety & Emergency. If you don’t see this option, go to Location instead, then tap Advanced to find earthquake-related settings.

* Find Earthquake Alerts: In the Safety & Emergency menu, tap Earthquake Alerts. If you’re in the Location settings, look for Earthquake Alerts under the Advanced section.

* Toggle On Earthquake Alerts: You will see a switch labeled Earthquake Alerts. Tap it to turn the feature on. If it’s already enabled (as it is by default on many devices), you’re good to go.