The recent earthquakes in Italy

[epenguin]

Can anybody throw any light, illuminating also to those totally ignorant of geology, on the recent earthquakes in the Reggio-Emilia region of Italy? Considering that this region had not been classified as of high risk (and so the regulations for buildings are not as cautious as elsewhere). What is the explanation for what happened unexpectedly, does it suggest a modified overall model, could the quake have knock-on effects elsewhere in the country, or change the expectations for elsewhere, would it be expected to remain exceptional for the RE region or would further trouble be expected there?

 

[Astronuc]

There is some discussion in this thread - Earthquakes: Mag 6 N. Italy and Mag 5.6 W. Bulgaria
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=607896

See also - Historical Seismicity - http://neic.usgs.gov/neis/bulletin/neic_b000a1mn_h.html

Seismic Hazard Map of N. Italy - http://neic.usgs.gov/neis/bulletin/neic_b000a1mn_w.html

Shaker map - http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/shakemap/global/shake/b000a1mn/

These are related to the 5.8 mag earthquake of Tuesday, May 29, 2012 at 07:00:03 UTC

Of course the area is at high risk, and buildings should be build to a code to withstand strong earthquakes.

 

[Huyen401]

It is certainly concerning to hear about the recent earthquakes in the Reggio-Emilia region of Italy. From what I understand, this region was not considered to be at high risk for earthquakes, so it is understandable that there may be confusion and questions about what happened.

As a non-expert in geology, I cannot provide a definitive explanation for these earthquakes. However, it is worth noting that earthquakes can occur in unexpected places and can even be triggered by human activities such as fracking. It is possible that the regulations for buildings in this region were not as cautious as in other areas, which could have contributed to the damage and impact of the earthquakes.

It is also important to consider the potential for knock-on effects or changes in expectations for other regions in Italy. While it is impossible to predict with certainty, it is always a possibility that earthquakes in one area could have an impact on neighboring regions. It may be worth monitoring the situation closely and taking necessary precautions, just in case.

In terms of the future for the Reggio-Emilia region, it is difficult to say whether this was a one-time event or if further trouble could be expected. It would depend on a variety of factors, including the underlying geology and potential human activities in the area. Hopefully, experts will be able to provide more information and guidance in the coming days and weeks.