Earthquakes in Algeria

Algeria and Earthquakes

by Laurel Bowen - Week 3 Blog Post for Geology 9 with Ana Garcia Garcia

This week we will be discussing Algeria's seismicity. Seismicity refers to the occurrence and intensity of earthquakes in a specific region, shaped by geological factors like tectonic plate boundaries and fault lines. Regions with high seismicity are prone to more frequent and potentially stronger earthquakes, necessitating focused efforts on earthquake preparedness and risk mitigation. Algeria experiences a moderate level of seismic activity, although occasionally significant earthquakes can happen. The country is considered one of the most earthquake-prone regions due to its geographical positioning, geological makeup, and the susceptibility of its constructions to seismic events. Back in 2003, the Algerian Red Crescent Society (ARCS) launched a project to train disaster response teams in all 48 Algerian governorates within three years. The International Federation provided equipment, and the French Red Cross offered training. ARCS assessed vulnerability in regions like Annaba, Skikda, Oran, Boumerdes, and Ouargla. Simultaneously, plans were implemented to establish first aid centers in all governorates, and ARCS distributed informative leaflets on earthquake preparedness. The urgency stemmed from past disasters, including a 2003 earthquake that killed 3,000, heavy rains in 2002 causing numerous deaths, and a 1980 earthquake claiming 5,000 lives. In summary, Algeria acknowledges its susceptibility to seismic activity, leading to a proactive and comprehensive approach in earthquake preparedness and risk mitigation. The initiatives undertaken by the Algerian Red Crescent Society, in collaboration with international partners, reflect a commitment to enhancing resilience in the face of seismic challenges.

Works Cited

Oussama Sohaib Mazari a, et al. “Creating a Homogenized Earthquake Catalog for Algeria and Mapping the Main Seismic Parameters Using a Geographic Information System.” Journal of African Earth Sciences, Pergamon, 23 Feb. 2023, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1464343X23000687#:~:text=Algeria’s%20seismicity%20can%20be%20considered,Yelles%2DChaouche%2C%202022).

“Natural Disasters (New Version Coming Soon).” Open Geography Education, www.opengeography.org/natural-disasters-new-version-coming-soon.html. Accessed 7 Feb. 2024.

Think Hazard, thinkhazard.org/en/. Accessed 7 Feb. 2024.

UNDP and Indigenous Peoples: A Policy of Engagement, www.undp.org/sites/g/files/zskgke326/files/publications/UNDP_Policy_of_Engagement_with_Indigenous_Peoples.pdf. Accessed 8 Feb. 2024.