Nicosia: Seismologist Sylvana Pilidou, Senior Geological Officer at the Department of Geological Survey, has told CNA that Cyprus is in the process of revising its seismic zones.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Pilidou discussed these revisions in the context of recent seismic events in Latin America, specifically a 7.4 magnitude earthquake in Colombia and two significant quakes in Venezuela measuring 7.2 and 7.5. These seismic occurrences, though unrelated, happened within the same broader tectonic region. Pilidou highlighted that, despite their similarities in magnitude, the events have distinct tectonic origins that influenced their impact and intensity.
Regarding Cyprus, Pilidou explained that the ongoing revision of seismic zones is driven by improved understanding of local faults and access to detailed earthquake catalogues. The completion of microzonation studies in major urban centers has also enhanced knowledge of soil behavior during earthquakes. This updated scientific data is essential for strengthening building resilience against seismic risks in Cyprus.
Pilidou emphasized that the Venezuelan earthquakes, occurring at a horizontal tectonic boundary, were shallow and intense locally, while the Colombian earthquake, with a deeper focus, affected a broader area with less intensity. Fortunately, the depth of the Colombian earthquake mitigated its potential destructiveness compared to the shallower, doublet Venezuelan quake.
In discussing the tragedies in Latin America, Pilidou noted that geological, soil, and construction factors played roles in the earthquakes' severe outcomes. She stressed the importance of geoscientific contributions to Cyprus's earthquake protection through seismic monitoring, fault mapping, and realistic risk modeling. The current seismic zones, established in 2004, are being revised to incorporate new findings and align with the updated Eurocode 8 standards.
Despite the challenges, Pilidou pointed out that advanced technologies, including early warning systems, can provide crucial seconds for protective measures, though their implementation in Cyprus faces geographical and technical limitations. However, the Google Android Earthquake Alerts System offers some early warning capabilities using mobile phone sensors globally, a system that has been partially active in Cyprus for recent significant earthquakes.
In conclusion, Pilidou reiterated that while earthquakes remain unpredictable, advancements in scientific knowledge and construction practices can significantly mitigate their impacts, offering a hopeful perspective in the aftermath of the recent Latin American earthquakes.