How to Get Earthquake Alerts on Your Smartphone
Easy setup for iPhone and Android
There’s been a lot of earthquakes in Southern California lately, and that means a lot of you are emailing me about how to set up phone alerts!
Both recent quakes not only rattled my house, but I got these alerts on my phone BEFORE the ground shook. The early alert system, it seems, is finally working!
Keep in mind, that there are only a few OFFICIAL ways to get early warnings. All the other “earthquake” apps out there will alert you after the fact. So if you want a heads-up before the ground starts shaking, here’s how to enable alerts on your phone.
These systems aren’t perfect, so you might not always get an alert, but in my case according to my security camera, the phones in my house started buzzing a full 17 seconds before the shaking started. That’s enough time to get under a table or somewhere safe.
Three Ways to Get Earthquake Alerts
1. Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA)
You've probably seen these for AMBER Alerts. The same system can warn you about earthquakes.
For iPhone users:
Go to Settings
Tap on Notifications
Scroll all the way down
Toggle on "Emergency Alerts"
For Android users:
Open Settings
Tap on Safety and Emergency
Turn on "Wireless Emergency Alerts"
WEA alerts trigger for earthquakes magnitude 5.0 and higher if you're in an area expected to feel shaking.
2. MyShake App
This app is available for both iPhone and Android users. It's designed specifically for earthquake alerts and uses a network of ground sensors along the West Coast.
To set up MyShake:
Download the app from the App Store or Google Play
Open the app and follow the setup instructions
Make sure to set your location settings to "Always" for the most accurate alerts
MyShake will alert you before earthquakes of magnitude 4.5 or greater.
3. Built-in Android Alerts
If you're an Android user, you have an additional option built right into your phone's operating system.
To enable Android Earthquake Alerts:
Go to Settings
Tap on Safety and Emergency
Turn on "Earthquake Alerts"
No extra app download is needed for this feature.
Stay Informed, Stay Safe
By setting up these alert systems, you're taking an important step in earthquake preparedness. Remember, these tools work best when combined with other safety measures like having an emergency kit and knowing safe spots in your home or office.
Don't wait for the next big quake to catch you unprepared. Set up your alerts today and stay one step ahead of the shake!