Facts vs rumors

Facts, not rumors

After every tremor, fake forecasts and old myths spread fast and cause real panic. Here's what the science actually says.

Earthquakes cannot be predicted.

No person, app, animal or astrologer can tell you the exact day, time, place or size of a future earthquake. Science can estimate long-term probability and hazard — but not a precise forecast. Anyone claiming to know when the 'next big one' will strike is wrong, and is putting people at risk.

Common myths, corrected

“A scientist predicted a big earthquake on [date].”
No one can predict the exact time, place or size of a quake. Messages with a specific date are false — ignore them and check official sources.
“Strange animal behaviour or ‘earthquake weather’ means one is coming.”
There is no reliable warning sign in animals or weather. ‘Earthquake weather’ does not exist.
“Small quakes release pressure and prevent a big one.”
It would take hundreds of small quakes to equal the energy of one large one. Small quakes don’t meaningfully reduce the risk.
“Stand in a doorway — it’s the safest place.”
Outdated for modern homes. Drop, Cover and Hold On under sturdy furniture is safer.
“Run outside the moment shaking starts.”
Most injuries come from falling debris while running. Drop, Cover, Hold On indoors — unless open ground is a step away.
“The ‘Triangle of Life’ beats Drop-Cover-Hold.”
It is not endorsed by disaster authorities. The official guidance worldwide is Drop, Cover, Hold On.
“Aftershocks are harmless.”
Aftershocks can be large and can collapse buildings already weakened by the main quake.
“Concrete buildings are always safe; mud houses always collapse.”
Safety depends on design and build quality, not just the material or height. A well-built traditional home can outperform a poorly-built concrete one.

How to spot a fake forecast

  • It claims an exact date, time, place or magnitude.
  • It urges you to panic or to ‘share immediately’.
  • It cites a vague ‘NASA / foreign scientist’ with no real source.
  • It doesn’t appear on any official channel.

When in doubt, don’t share it. Spreading a false forecast causes panic and can cost lives.

Who to trust

Verify earthquake information against official sources before believing or sharing it:

National Earthquake Monitoring & Research Center→ Nat'l Disaster Authority (BIPAD Portal)→ USGS Earthquake Hazards Program→ Nepal Red Cross Society→

Be the person who shares facts

Calm, accurate information protects your community. Learn what really keeps you safe.

Preparedness guide After a quake