In a shocking revelation, Google has acknowledged its earthquake early warning system fell catastrophically short during the devastating Turkey quake of 2023.

Despite having the potential to reach ten million people within 98 miles of the epicenter with a high-level alert—offering up to 35 seconds to find safety—only a mere 469 warnings were dispatched for the initial 7.8 magnitude quake.

While half a million individuals received a lower-tier alert meant for minimal shaking, this notification lacked the urgency needed in such a crisis.

System Under Scrutiny: What Went Wrong?

Initially, Google had claimed that its alert system had "performed well," yet this incident challenges that assertion. Available in nearly 100 countries, Google's Android Earthquake Alerts (AEA) is described as a "global safety net," especially crucial in areas lacking any other warning systems.

The AEA operates through Android devices, which comprise over 70% of the phones in Turkey. On February 6, 2023, two major earthquakes struck southeastern Turkey, claiming over 55,000 lives while injuring more than 100,000 individuals, many of whom were caught off guard while asleep in collapsing buildings.

An Algorithm's Flaw: Underestimating Catastrophic Shaking

Though the early warning system was operational at the time of the disasters, it gravely underestimated the severity of the quakes. Instead of recognizing the first quake's strength as a catastrophic 7.8, the system pegged it at a mere 4.5 to 4.9.

Google has stated, "We continue to improve the system based on what we learn in each earthquake," but critics are raising alarm about the apparent delay in addressing these serious shortcomings.

A Crucial Alert Missed: ‘Take Action’ vs. ‘Be Aware’

Google’s most severe warning, known as "Take Action," should trigger a deafening alarm and illuminate the screens of users, overriding silent modes. However, during the Turkish events, only 8,158 such alerts were sent for the second quake later that day.

Following the tragedy, the algorithm was revised, successfully simulating the first earthquake and generating ten million ‘Take Action’ alerts for those at risk along with an additional 67 million ‘Be Aware’ alerts for those farther away.

Learning from the Past: What’s Next for Google?

Scientists are concerned that less-tested technologies like Google's may lead nations to underestimate the importance of local warning systems. Harold Tobin, director of the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network, emphasized the need for transparency regarding the technology’s performance.

While some experts, like Elizabeth Reddy from the Colorado School of Mines, express frustration over the delayed response in improving the system, Google indicates that the AEA has sent out alerts in 98 countries.

With Google facing increasing scrutiny over its role in public safety, the world watches closely to see whether its earthquake warning systems can evolve to meet the challenges posed by natural disasters.