Seismoelectromagnetics: Can we really predict earthquakes?

Abstract

Seismoelectromagnetics is the study of electromagnetic (EM) emissions coming from earthquake zones. In recent years, electromagnetic signals in the wide band of frequencies were observed before, during, and after the occurrence of an earthquake. Change in plasma parameters in the ionosphere, which can be associated with earthquakes were also observed. All these lead to the question, "Can we really predict an earthquake?" In this talk I will review EM earthquake precursors and the various mechanisms behind these precursory events. The talk will culminate on what the Philippines can do in this emerging research area. It will be shown that ULF emission is a promising candidate because its skin depth is comparable to the depth at which crustal activities occur. Good magnetic data from the Magnetic Data Acquisition System (MAGDAS), installed by the Space Environment Research Center (SERC), Kyushu University, can be used to study ULF earthquake precursors. At present there are four MAGDAS magnetic stations in the country.