Google Android Earthquake Alerts System Reportedly Underestimated Kahramanmaraş Earthquake and Failed to Send Urgent Warnings to Millions

During the February 6, 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake sequence, Google's Android Earthquake Alerts system reportedly estimated the initial magnitude-7.8 earthquake at only magnitude 4.5–4.9. Just 469 users reportedly received its highest-level “Take Action’ warning, while approximately 500,000 received lower-level notices; researchers later estimated that roughly 10 million people could have received urgent warnings providing up to 35 seconds to seek safety. The discrepancy between the estimated and actual magnitude raises questions about the accuracy of AI-powered earthquake detection systems and the need for more robust testing protocols to ensure public safety. Through contributors—JOIN US—to learn more about the importance of responsible AI governance in disaster response and prevention, researchers are exploring ways to improve the reliability of these systems.