SEISMOLOGISTS PREDICT NO MAJOR TREMORS
ArmenPress
Sept 17 2004
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 17, ARMENPRESS: Armenian seismological stations have
registered 29 earthquakes since the start of the year, the strongest
of which measured 3.4 points on Richter scale and was reported 70 km
north-east of the town of Ararat on January 4 and the lowest was 1.3
points on Richter scale, reported on July 19 near the town of Spitak,
the site of the destructive 1988 earthquake.
Judging by a set of indications, observed in the last 10 years,
Armenian seismologists predict that the possible strongest earthquake
that may hit Armenia will be no higher than 5-6 points on Richter
scale, saying its possible location may be in the southern-eastern
province of Syunik.
The national seismic service has already started a series of measures
aimed to raise the level of local population’s awareness concerning
earthquake risks. The Armenian government adopted in the last two
years two comprehensive programs on seismic risks, one encloses the
Law on Seismic Protection and the second lists the strategically
important facilities that need reinforced seismic protection.
Armenian national seismic service, included in the world seismic
networks, is considered one of the best services in Europe. The
service is cooperating closely with a German GFZ and US NASA and
UNAVCO organizations in identifying and registration of seismic risks.