MyShake Earthquake Alerts


Rating: 3.7	Downloads: 1,000,000+
Category: Weather	Offer by: UC Berkeley Seismological Laboratory

The MyShake Earthquake Alerts app is a powerful mobile tool that provides real-time notifications and detailed information about seismic events. It leverages the phone’s built-in sensors to detect potentially strong ground shaking, offering immediate warnings before official alerts arrive, primarily for users located near the epicenter. This service is crucial for individuals residing in earthquake-prone regions, offering timely information for safety actions.

The key value of MyShake Earthquake Alerts lies in its speed and accuracy for detecting significant local shaking. Unlike waiting for official warnings, the app offers prompt alerts based on sensor data, which can be vital seconds or minutes before other systems activate, especially in areas with high population density. Its practical usage includes enabling immediate responses, like taking cover or securing oneself indoors/outdoors, minimizing potential injuries and enhancing personal preparedness significantly.

App Features

Real-Time Seismic Detection: The app constantly monitors the phone’s motion sensors (accelerometer) to identify the unique ground vibrations caused by earthquakes. This immediate detection allows the app to alert users faster than traditional systems in many cases, giving them crucial seconds. This feature transforms the phone itself into a sensor, providing localized early warnings directly from potentially affected areas.
Alert Configuration Options: Users can customize their alert preferences within the app to suit their location and comfort level. Settings include adjustable alert thresholds (magnitude sensitivity), selection of alert types (shake warnings, aftershock notifications), and control over vibration and sound. This technical flexibility ensures that notifications are relevant and not overly intrusive, improving the overall user experience and reliability during actual seismic events.
Shake Map Visualization: After an event, MyShake generates a map showing the approximate intensity of ground shaking based on data from numerous participating smartphones. This feature allows users to see the affected area in real-time and understand the potential impact of the seismic event. It provides a community-based visualization of the shaking pattern, helping users assess their situation relative to others.
Aftershock Monitoring: Following a primary earthquake alert, the app continuously monitors for subsequent smaller earthquakes (aftershocks) in the affected region. Users receive notifications for significant aftershocks as they occur, helping them stay informed and prepared without needing to constantly recheck the app. This feature’s value is in providing ongoing situational awareness and reducing anxiety after a major event.
Integration with USGS: The app integrates directly with the USGS (United States Geological Survey) earthquake monitoring system. When a significant seismic event is detected either by the app’s sensor network or by USGS networks, it is promptly relayed to the USGS, contributing valuable data for earthquake science and public awareness. This integration ensures alerts are compared with official data sources, enhancing credibility and providing comprehensive information for different user needs and geographic locations.
Global ShakeAlert™ Integration (where available): In regions covered by the USGS ShakeAlert™ program, MyShake can deliver these official, faster-than-early-warning (FTEW) alerts directly to users. This feature taps into a sophisticated, research-based system that detects earthquakes very rapidly and forwards alerts before significant shaking arrives, providing seconds to minutes for protective actions. It represents advanced functionality, leveraging complex algorithms for true early warning capabilities in specific zones.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Fast, localized detection using phone sensors
Customizable alert settings for user preference
Community-based Shake Map visualization
Aftershock monitoring and alerts

Cons:

Detection only works reliably for significant ground shaking near the phone
Misreporting possible if the phone is on a stable surface
Dependence on phone location and being powered on
Alerts may occasionally trigger during normal phone movement

Similar Apps

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Emergency Alert	This app offers broad public warning system access and severe weather alerts across the US. Known for government notification integration and state and local emergency management support.
Earthquake – NOAA USGS	Designed for simplicity and mobile-first usability. Includes guided steps and real-time previews.
Quake Forecast	Offers AI-powered automation, advanced export options, and collaboration tools ideal for teams.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need an internet connection to receive MyShake alerts?
A: Yes, MyShake relies on the internet to detect shaking and send alerts. A cellular or Wi-Fi connection is required, and the app needs location services enabled for accurate alerts and map display.

Q: How accurate are the MyShake alerts compared to official systems?
A: MyShake provides rapid warnings based on phone sensor data for local shaking, often faster than other systems for nearby events. When integrated with programs like ShakeAlert™, it delivers official early warnings. However, official public alert systems (like those from USGS/NOAA) generally provide the most reliable and widely broadcasted alerts across larger distances.

Q: Can MyShake alert me if my phone is in another country?
A: Yes, you can configure the app’s location settings to alert you for earthquakes anywhere in the world. However, the detection relies on your phone being on a desk or table; placing it on a shelf or wall significantly reduces its ability to detect local ground motion accurately.

Q: Are there any costs associated with MyShake alerts or data usage?
A: The core alerting functionality is typically free. However, using the app for data logging or contributing to the Shake Map might consume data or battery, depending on your usage. Check your data plan if you plan intensive use. App store purchase might be needed for advanced features or data export.

Q: What should I do when I receive a MyShake alert?
A: When an alert is triggered near you, take immediate action: drop to your feet, take cover under a sturdy desk or table, and hold on. Stay indoors away from windows, outside, or upper floors if the alert was for significant shaking. If you receive an aftershock alert, follow the same safety procedures immediately.