Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, is vulnerable to earthquake disasters due to spontaneous urbanization, high population density, haphazard growth of high-rise buildings, unplanned infrastructure, etc. Besides these, inadequate disaster management plans make Dhaka more vulnerable to disaster risk if a seismic tremor of magnitude 7 or over on the Richter scale occurs. An effective earthquake disaster prevention program is required at organizational levels to minimize the risk of disaster. Earthquake risk in Dhaka city  Dhaka is vulnerable to earthquake disasters for several reasons.  Located in risky seismic zone Bangladesh has been divided into three main earthquake zones. According to the seismic zoning of Bangladesh, Dhaka falls into Zone 2, that also includes Rajshahi, Natore, Magura, Meherpur, Cumilla, Brahmanbaria, and Feni. Here, the Chittagong-Comilla-Dhaka and Tangail areas have a possible earthquake risk of magnitude of 6 on the Richter scale. Unsafe structures The government of Bangladesh has developed national building codes, which include detailed guidelines for earthquake-resistant design of concrete and steel structures. However, these codes are not officially enforced. Due to the lack of effective enforcement mechanisms, it is feared that many new structures do not maintain the necessary requisites for earthquake-resistant construction. Therefore, the number of unsafe structures in Dhaka city is increasing.  Read more: 10 Most Earthquake-prone Countries around the World Furthermore, many high-rise buildings and garment factories are being constructed in Dhaka without following the rules. Furthermore, not leaving adequate open spaces while designing buildings also increases the risk of casualties if structures collapse due to earthquakes. Besides these, a significant portion of the structures of Dhaka city have encroached upon the streets and roadways, making those infrastructures more vulnerable for passersby and commuters during earthquakes.  As a result, after a major earthquake of magnitude 7 or over on the Richter scale, these structures can collapse, block streets, hinder rescue operations, and bring the greatest devastation to Dhaka city.  High population density The population density is very high in Dhaka city. With more than 23.9 million people, and an average of 38,000 people per square kilometer, Dhaka is one of the most crowded cities in the world. As the city is expanding quickly, many new buildings, bridges, roads, and other infrastructure are being constructed to fulfill the needs of this big population.  Millions of inhabitants of Dhaka city live in poorly made buildings.  Soil type Geographically, Dhaka city is made of soft, wet delta soil, which makes the structures more vulnerable to earthquakes.  Read more: Can Earthquakes Really be Predicted? Some effective organizational measures to mitigate earthquake disaster risk in Dhaka city As an earthquake is a natural disaster, it cannot be prevented. However, adequate measures at national, organizational, and individual levels can minimize the loss of lives and property. Here the organizational measures will be discussed. Decentralization  Dhaka is the center of the economy and administration of Bangladesh. Therefore, Dhaka’s risk in the context of the earthquake can make the economic stability, and public administration of Bangladesh vulnerable. Therefore, decentralization of key financial and administrative activities can minimize the damage if Dhaka faces any major earthquake.  Planning for water and airways  If a major earthquake occurs, the existing road communication system in and around Dhaka can be affected, but the effect will be less in waterways. So there should be a plan to restore the existing waterways (canals, rivers in and around Dhaka) for use during the earthquake emergency period.  Dhaka city is surrounded by three rivers, Buriganga, Sitalakhya, and Turag. These rivers can be again turned into the lifeblood of the city. These rivers need extensive dredging to ensure navigability around the year. The city's circular riverway can be a very useful communication route.  Furthermore, helicopters can also perform during emergency response. This will be an effective way in the field of rescue and emergency services distribution.  Read more: Earthquake Safety Tips for Parents to Keep Children Safe Build earthquake-resistant structures If the structures are not earthquake-resistant, severe damage to lives and properties can occur after an earthquake of 7 or more magnitude hits the city. To minimize the risk of earthquake destruction, earthquake-resistant buildings should be built.  The city authority can create strict regulations and make it obligatory for planners, engineers, and architects to consider earthquake-resistance capacity while making plans and designs. The common steps of building earthquake-resistant structures include creating flexible foundations; building shear walls, moment-resisting frames, and diaphragms; building Seismic Invisibility Cloak; using earthquake-resistant materials, etc. Seismic hazard mapping and database preparation It is essential to develop a comprehensive regional database of all recorded historical earthquakes in and around Dhaka city. A comprehensive regional seismic hazard map of Dhaka city should be prepared to incorporate appropriate building codes.  Read more: Turkey Earthquake: Why Did So Many Buildings Collapse? Resources such as scientists, seismologists, geologists, engineers, architects, planners, GIS experts, remote sensing experts, and other technicians should be prepared through higher education and relevant training programs to build leadership in earthquake hazard assessment research in Bangladesh. 

Flood control methods aim to minimise and prevent the detrimental effects of flood waters on road surfaces, human habitats and green spaces. Flooding can be caused by heavy rain or manmade changes to water bodies and water flows. To control the impact of flooding, countries around the world have taken diverse structural and non-structural types of initiatives. Reasons Behind Flooding: Why Water Overflows Flash floods can be triggered by natural phenomena, such as heavy rainfall, severe wind flows above water, tsunamis, cyclones, high tides, etc.   Now, what happens when huge amounts of water rush down? A portion of this water is retained in water bodies (rivers, lakes, canals, ponds, etc), vegetation, and soil surface while some water gets evaporated, and the rest of water passes through surface runoff. Floods occur when water bodies, soil, and vegetation cannot absorb the excess water. Human activities can influence the creation of excess water or prevent the natural ways of water absorption, retention or run-off. For example, deforestation, inadequate green spaces, failures/breakage/willful opening of dams or barrages, insufficient water reservoirs, impervious or paved surfaces, blocked drainage systems, clogged water bodies, etc can lead to inundation.  Read more: What Can Dhaka Learn from the Smart City Singapore Structural Methods to Control Inundation Structural flood control methods include man-made physical solutions, such as the construction of dams or barrages, water reservoirs, river dredging,  planting vegetation, etc. Besides, well-functioning drainage systems, channels to divert flood water, levees (dikes), etc are man-made structures to fight floods.  Barrages or Dams Dams or Barrages are designed to control the flow of water completely or partially. In the case of large barrages, associated reservoirs are built to create a space to hold the floodwater.  Dams are also used to generate hydroelectric power and water conservation. Construction and designs of barrages and the associated reservoirs depend upon standards set out by the respective governments. Usually, dams and reservoirs are built considering the watershed’s design flow rates, meteorological data, topographic features, streamflow, soil data, etc. However, dry dams serve for flood control only without any conservation storage. Diversion tunnels or canals Flood control tunnels or channels refer to empty large basins where the surface water can flow through. The water will be retained only during flooding periods.  These types of structures also include dry tunnels or channels that are built underground and run below the street levels of cities. When a flash flood occurs the excess surface water is drained out through these underground structures into a sea, river or other water bodies.  In many cases, underground flood tunnels or channels are built on the ancient natural waterways to reduce flooding. Read more: Green Roofs in Dhaka City: Pathway to Smart Urban Agriculture Floodplains and groundwater replenishment Groundwater replenishment is a great way to utilise the excess surface water. In this method, the flood is diverted onto land so that the soil can absorb excess water. The recharging of groundwater tables not only prevents flooding but also serves as a natural reservoir. People can extract the underground water through pumps during dry seasons or droughts.  River defences Rivers can cut down the risk of inundation by holding the water. Regular dredging is essential to preserve the navigability of the rivers during flooding. Structures such as reservoirs, levees, bunds, weirs, etc can be built to prevent rivers from overflowing their banks.  Flood barrier A flood barrier is also known as a surge barrier or storm surge barrier. This structure refers to a specific type of floodgate, designed to prevent inundation in the protected area behind the barrier. Flood barriers can also be built around individual buildings to prevent floodwaters from entering the buildings. Non-structural Ways to Prevent Flooding & Minimise Losses Non-structural flood control methods include flood risk management strategies, land-use planning, zoning, flood proofing, flood forecasting, advanced flood warning systems, flood insurance, evacuation of flood victims, rebuilding plans, etc.  Flood mapping Governments and policymakers utilise flood mapping as a tool to delineate the areas of potential flooding events, assisting planned decisions to prevent extreme flooding occurrences. Flood maps help create documentation for experts and policymakers to make informed decisions about flood hazards. It also generates conceptual models with information for public and private sectors about flooding hazards.  Flood modelling Flood modelling is another tool that is used to anticipate the severity of flood hazards and their effects on humans and structures. Flood modelling is conducted by combining diverse factors such as terrain, hydrology, urban topography, etc. This technology utilises geomorphic methods, remote sensing, hydraulic models, conceptual models, etc.  Stakeholder engagement Integrating stakeholder engagement into flood management provides a more complex analysis of the situation and allows enhanced public engagement in policy discussions. This creates paths for collective solutions through greater cohesion and consensus.  Flood risk assessment (FRM) Flood risk assessment can help to reduce the human casualties, and socio-economic losses caused by flooding. FRM is used to reduce flood risk and manage risks to lives and properties due to flooding.  Examples by country Canada To protect Manitoba from future floods, the authorities constructed a massive system of diversions, dikes, and floodways including the Red River Floodway and the Portage Diversion.  United States The USA took multiple flood barrier projects to protect the transit assets in Manhattan. In one case, they sealed subway entrances using a deployable fabric cover system called Flex-Gate that protects the subway entrances against 14 feet of water.  The USA revised their extreme storm flood protection based on new Federal Emergency Management Agency guidelines for 100y and 500y design flood elevations. After the 1993 flood across the Midwest, the federal government bought flood-prone lands as a part of their flood prevention plans. Several communities agreed and the government converted their lands into wetlands. These wetlands served as a sponge when storms and floods occurred.  Japan Tokyo built a 6.3 km long, 50-metre-deep concrete tunnel system called the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel (MAOUDC). This tunnel diverts flood water from small to midsize rivers to the Edogawa River.

The ongoing flood is wreaking havoc on human lives, livestock, wildlife, and properties in affected areas of Bangladesh. Floodwater is washing away houses, trees, cattle, and people with the current. Apart from the rampage of floodwater, people also die from snake bites and other poisonous insects during the rainy season. To prevent such unwanted loss of lives, mass awareness is needed. Why Do Floods Increase Snake Movement? Floodwaters disrupt the natural environment, forcing snakes to leave their habitats in search of dry land. In a country like Bangladesh, where rivers crisscross the landscape, the risk of encountering snakes during and after a flood is particularly high. These reptiles may enter homes, fields, and even urban areas as they seek refuge from the rising waters. Types of Snakes Commonly Found in Flood-Affected Areas In Bangladesh, both venomous and non-venomous snakes prevail. A few of the common species are: Russell’s Viper: One of the most dangerous venomous snakes in Bangladesh.Common Krait: Known for its potent venom and nocturnal behavior.Spectacled Cobra: A venomous snake that is often found in residential areas.Rat Snake: Non-venomous but can be mistaken for a cobra due to its size. Knowing the types of snakes in your area can help you stay vigilant and take appropriate precautions. Read more: Russell's Viper: Myths, Facts, and Everything You Need to Know Cautions Before Inundation to Minimise the Risk of Snake Encounters  Preparation is key to reducing the risk of snake attacks during a flood. Here are some steps you can take before the floodwaters rise: Secure Your Home Ensure that your home is as snake-proof as possible. Check for gaps and holes in walls, doors, and windows where snakes could enter. Seal these openings with caulk or other suitable materials. Pay special attention to areas around pipes and drains, as snakes can use these as entry points. Clear Your Surroundings Keep your yard and surrounding areas clear of debris, tall grass, and piles of wood or trash. These can serve as hiding spots for snakes. Regularly trim bushes to reduce the likelihood of snakes taking up residence near your home. Read more: Essential Snake Safety Tips for Hiking, Trekking, Camping, and Traveling Double-check Household Items Store food, water, and other essential items on elevated platforms to avoid attracting snakes into your home during a flood. Snakes may enter buildings in search of food, and eliminating potential food sources can reduce this risk. Educate Your Family Teach your family members, especially children, about the dangers of snakes and how to identify common species in your area. Make sure everyone knows how to respond if they encounter a snake, including keeping a safe distance and notifying an adult immediately. Safety Measures During the Flood to Avoid Snake Attacks When floodwaters rise, snakes are more likely to be on the move. Here’s how to stay safe: Stay Indoor If possible, stay indoor during the height of the flood. Snakes may be swimming in the water or seeking shelter on dry ground. Avoid wading through floodwaters, especially in areas where visibility is low. Read more: Hollywood's Top 10 Most Thrilling Snake Films Use a Stick to Probe Ahead If you must walk through floodwaters, use a long stick to probe the ground ahead of you. This can help you detect any hidden snakes before stepping on them. Wear boots and long pants to protect your legs from potential bites. Be Cautious Around Debris Floodwaters can carry debris like logs, branches, and trash, which may provide hiding spots for snakes. Be cautious when moving or working near debris, and avoid reaching into areas where you cannot see clearly. Keep Your Home Well-Lit Snakes tend to avoid well-lit areas. If you’re using a generator or battery-powered lights, keep your home well-lit at night to deter snakes from entering. Read more: Russell's Viper: Myths, Facts, and Everything You Need to Know

Every year, floods in Bangladesh unleash devastating impacts, displacing thousands and creating acute shortage of essentials. This recurring crisis underscores the urgent need for increased support. Effective assistance can significantly alleviate immediate suffering and aid in recovery. Active participation from individuals, organizations, and the global community is crucial to address these challenges and help communities rebuild their lives. Let's explore how to take meaningful action to support flood victims. Critical Approaches to Help Flood Victims in Bangladesh Conducting Immediate Rescue Operations Rescuing individuals often involves deploying boats to navigate through floodwaters and reach stranded persons. These boats can navigate through submerged streets and areas, allowing rescuers to reach those cut off from dry land. Speedboats can be utilized for faster response and to cover larger areas efficiently. In severe cases, helicopters are essential for reaching inaccessible or heavily flooded regions. They can airlift individuals from isolated locations, bypassing obstructed or hazardous terrain. Volunteering When it comes to vital hands-on support, volunteers can make a tangible difference in flood-affected areas. This turbulent period raises great demands on various aspects of disaster response, including distributing aid, setting up temporary shelters, and assisting with medical care. By organizing and distributing food, water, and other essential supplies, volunteers ensure that resources reach those who need them the most. In addition, volunteers can support clean-up and rebuilding work, which are vital for restoring communities and infrastructure. Providing emotional support and reassurance to flood survivors is also an important aspect of volunteering, helping to boost morale and strengthen community resilience. Read more: Landslide Safety, Preparedness Tips: Dos and Don'ts Provide Emergency Supplies Distributing non-perishable food items and clean drinking water helps prevent water-borne diseases, malnutrition, and dehydration, which are prevalent in flood-affected areas. Providing warm clothing, blankets, and sleeping mats can also help people fight colds.  Additionally, essential medical supplies such as first aid kits, medications, and hygiene products are vital for treating injuries and deterring disease outbreaks. Besides delivering emergency supplies to the government flood shelters and local people’s houses, temporary shelters, such as colleges, schools, or local multi-storied buildings, where local people take shelter, should also be covered.  Collaborating with local organizations or community groups can enhance the effectiveness of relief distribution, ensuring that aids reach those in greatest need promptly and efficiently. Read more: How to be Safe During and After Heavy Rains Raise Awareness Utilizing social media platforms, local media, and community outreach effectively informs a wider audience about the damage and urgent needs of those affected. Highlighting specific aspects, such as the shortage of clean water, medical supplies, or temporary shelters, can mobilize resources and prompt action from individuals and organizations. Awareness campaigns can also encourage donations and volunteer work, fostering a sense of global solidarity and prompting government and international responses. It facilitates keeping the issue visible and ensures it remains a priority for donors and policymakers. Fund Health and Sanitation Initiatives Flooding can lead to contamination of water sources, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases. Funding projects that provide access to clean water and sanitation facilities, such as portable toilets and water purification systems, can significantly improve public health.  Moreover, initiatives like mobile health clinics can be helpful for flood-affected people to provide medical care, vaccinations, and treatment for diseases to address immediate health concerns.  Read more: What can COP27 do for climate vulnerable countries? When the flood water recedes, conducting health education programs can teach proper hygiene practices is an effective approach. It also ensures that communities remain resilient in the face of inundation challenges.

Earthquake alerts on smartphones offer crucial warnings mere seconds before the shaking begins, providing vital time to seek immediate safety. Utilizing advanced technology to detect seismic activity, these alerts help minimize injuries and save lives. Enabling this feature ensures preparedness and swift response during an earthquake, making it an indispensable tool for personal safety. Here's a step-by-step guide on activating the earthquake warning system on smartphones. How to Turn On Earthquake Alerts on Android Phones Prerequisites Before proceeding, it is necessary to ensure that both mobile data and Wi-Fi are enabled to access the internet. Additionally, the phone's location services must be activated to receive accurate alerts based on the right direction. Enabling of the Alarm Locate and tap the settings icon on the home screen. Scroll down to select the 'Safety and Emergency' option. Once inside, find the 'Earthquake Alerts' option, where the switch can be toggled to activate the alert on the device. Read more: Turkey Earthquake: Why Did So Many Buildings Collapse? Generally, these steps are almost the same for most phones that support the Google Play Store or Android model. Additional Features On the same screen, there is a small feature titled 'Demo' that simulates the smartphone's alert during an earthquake. It includes sounding an alarm, displaying earthquake magnitude and distance, and providing immediate action recommendations. Furthermore, following the 'Demo' option, there is another feature called 'Learn Earthquake Safety Tips'. It redirects to Google search and automatically displays safety information without requiring a search query to be typed. Read more: Earthquake Safety: Do’s and Don’ts during an Earthquake Alternative Access for Some Devices Some Android phones may not have the 'Safety and Emergency' option in 'Settings'. In that case, the feature can be found in 'Location'. That is, after turning on the phone's location, it doesn’t need to go back to the settings. On the 'Location' screen, scroll further down to find the direct 'Earthquake Alert' option. Device Compatibility These steps are generally applicable to Android devices using Android 5 (Lollipop) and above. Versions below Android 12 may have slight variations in enabling the alarm. Read more: Earthquake Safety Tips for Parents to Keep Children Safe How to Turn on Earthquake Alarm on iPhones Apple device users should navigate to the phone's 'Settings', then select 'Notifications'. From there, scroll down on the new screen to locate 'Emergency Alerts'. Activating this option toggles the earthquake alarm. How the Alert System Works Google's Earthquake Alarm system operates by leveraging the accelerometer sensors present in Android smartphones to detect seismic activity. These sensors can detect both surface vibrations and movements within structures, providing real-time earthquake data. Data Collection and Processing When Earthquake Alarm is enabled on an Android device, the accelerometer continuously monitors for seismic tremors. Upon detecting vibrations indicative of an earthquake, the smartphone immediately sends this data to Google's central server. Read more: 10 Most Earthquake-prone Countries around the World The server aggregates data from multiple smartphones in the affected area. By analyzing the timing and intensity of tremors reported by these devices, the system determines the occurrence, magnitude, and epicenter of the earthquake. Alert Distribution Upon processing the seismic data, Google's server promptly sends alerts to Android devices located within the affected region. These alerts are crucial for providing timely warnings to users, allowing them to respond swiftly to potential seismic hazards. There are two types of warning signals sent on earthquake levels: Be Aware Signals This signal is triggered for earthquakes with a magnitude up to 4.5 on the Richter scale. It notifies users through subtle vibrations, adjusted volume levels, and 'Do Not Disturb' settings on their phones. Read more: Post-Earthquake Cautions: Do’s & Don’ts Take Action Signals When the earthquake magnitude exceeds 4.5, this warning is activated. The alert occupies the entire screen of the smartphone, overriding 'Do Not Disturb' settings to ensure immediate attention. The notification sound is prominently activated to alert users to take necessary precautions. Summing Up Activating earthquake alarms on smartphones, compatible with Android and iPhones, requires an active internet connection and enabled location services. Using accelerometer data ensures timely warnings, empowering users to respond effectively during seismic events. These alerts underscore the importance of technology in enhancing safety and disaster preparedness worldwide. Read more: Can Earthquakes Really be Predicted?

Continuous heavy rainfall over the past three days has worsened the flood situation in Sylhet for the second time in just 20 days. Nearly seven lakh people in the Sylhet metropolitan area and throughout the district are now stranded. In the metropolitan area alone, 50,000 people across 21 wards have been affected by flooding, according to Sylhet district administration sources. Sylhet experienced the first phase of flooding on May 27, affecting approximately seven lakh people across all upazilas. The water had not fully receded when heavy rainfall and hill torrents hit again on June 15, worsening the situation by Eid day (June 17). Heavy rainfall on Eid-ul-Azha morning was briefly followed by a recession, but rain resumed from Tuesday dawn, causing significant overflows in all rivers and streams in Sylhet. On Eid day, water levels were above danger points at two river locations. By Tuesday morning, water levels at four rivers were above danger points at six locations. Sylhet mayor holds emergency meeting to address severe flooding This morning, water was flowing above danger levels at six points of three rivers.   The Water Development Board in Sylhet reported that by 9 am today, the Surma River at Kanaighat point was 91 cm above danger levels. At another point in Sylhet, it was 31 cm above the danger level. The Kushiyara River was 46 cm above danger level at Amalshid, 92 cm above at Fenchuganj and 12 cm above at Sherpur point.  According to the district administration, 675,937 people in 13 upazilas, including Sylhet metropolitan area, have been stranded till midnight. Of them, 50,000 people of 21 wards out of 42 in Sylhet metropolitan area are stranded.  A total of 627 shelter centres have been opened in the district. Of these, 80 are in the metropolitan areas. A total of 17,285 people have taken shelter in these centres. However, most people are not willing to leave their homes and go to shelters.  A total of 1,323 villages in 13 upazilas of the district have been inundated. The worst affected are: Gowainghat, Jaintapur, Golapganj, Companiganj, Kanaighat, Zakiganj, Biswanath and Osmaninagar upazilas. Sylhet grapples with fresh bout of flooding, dampening Eid celebrations across division Low-lying areas of the city are particularly hard-hit, with Shahjalal suburb completely submerged and water reaching neck level in many homes. Other severely affected areas include Jatrapur, Mendibagh, Shibganj, Raingar, Sobhanighat, Kalighat, Kamalgarh, Machimpur, Taltala, Jamtola, Kajirbazar, Madina Market, Akhaliya, and Mezortil. Several important roads in the city are also flooded. From 6 am Tuesday to 6 am Wednesday, the Sylhet Meteorological Office recorded 100 mm of rainfall and 55 mm from 6 am to 9 am today. Moreover, the Met office forecasted continuous heavy rainfall for the next three days. The district administration is actively working to rescue stranded individuals and has set up control rooms at the district collector's office and upazila executive offices to monitor the flood situation. Dedicated officers have been appointed in each upazila, and medical teams have been formed at union levels to provide health services to flood victims. If the heavy rainfall persists, the flood situation in Sylhet is expected to deteriorate further. Meanwhile, State Minister for Disaster Management and Relief Md Mohibbur Rahman, accompanied by the ministry’s officials, saw the flood-hit areas from a helicopter in the morning. He is scheduled to leave Sylhet for Dhaka by this afternoon.  Water levels of Surma, Kushiyara rivers in Sylhet again above danger level

Launch services beteween Barishal and other parts of Bangladesh resumed on Saturday (November 18, 2023) morning after 24 hours of suspension due to the cyclonic storm Midhili. Abdur Razzaque, river port official of Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA), said the operation of launches resumed at 7 am after the affect of cyclone Midhili ended. Barishal Engineering College students say BCL activists beat them up for not attending ‘political programme’ Earlier, BIWTA suspended operations of all types of river vessels from 10:00 am on Friday due to inclement weather caused by the cyclone. Meanwhile, the roads in different parts of Barishal city have been inundated due to the rainfall triggered by the cyclonic. JCD leader, another arrested in Barishal for ‘planning sabotage’ The residents of Battala, Srinath Chatarjee Lane and Bogura Road have been trapped in 2-feet of water since the cyclone hit the country’s coastal areas. Khokon Serniabat takes charge as Barishal mayor

The history of earthquakes is nothing less than terrifying. Whether it’s the 1556 Shaanxi earthquake or something as recent as the 2023 Turkey–Syria earthquake, every major earthquake in the world involves destruction and death. For centuries, scientists, geologists, saints, and seers alike have searched for answers to one inevitable question: Can earthquakes be predicted? Let’s try to find out. Myths about Earthquakes and Predicting Them The phenomenon of earthquakes has long been attributed to mythical and otherworldly happenings. Thousands of years ago, the occurrence of an earthquake not only brought destruction but also paved the way for the fear of the unknown and faith in supernatural power.  The concept of an earthquake is often attributed to Poseidon, the god of the sea in Greek mythology. It is said that Poseidon uses his trident to shake the earth which causes earthquakes. Similar stories are found in Japanese mythology where the giant catfish Namazu causes earthquakes. According to Mongolian mythology, the earth is placed on the back of a giant frog. When the frog stumbles, it causes earthquakes. Read more: 10 Most Earthquake-prone Countries around the World But beyond the myths, there are also some common misconceptions about earthquake predictions. Unlike the myths, these aren’t quite outlandish and are often passed on as hard facts. Some of the common misconceptions regarding earthquake prediction include:  - Animals can predict earthquake - There are always advanced signs of earthquakes - Earthquake is preceded by sudden weather change - Planetary alignment influences earthquake - Increased seismic activity is a precursor for a large earthquake - A series of small earthquakes deters the chance of a large earthquake in a region. Unfortunately, none of these concepts are true. There is no set pattern to earthquakes and neither does it have any identifiable precursors. And that brings us to the all-important question.  Read more: Earthquake Safety Tips for Parents to Keep Children Safe

Rain, a wonderful blessing of mother nature, helps plants grow, fills up the rivers, and keeps the world green and liveable. However, transforming into a powerful storm, heavy rain can bring lightning, thundershowers, and strong winds, which can cause damages to lives and properties. So, understanding how to be safe during and after heavy rains is essential. This article provides a significant to-do list, carrying some practical steps. Let's dive into exploring ways to reduce the risks during heavy rainfall. Safety Tips during Heavy Rains and Thundershowers Things to do while Driving Turn on Headlights Rain can make it hard for other drivers to see the car. Turning on headlights increases visibility, reducing the risk of accidents. Don't Attempt to Drive across a Flooded Area During heavy rains, many roads face water logging. The depth of water can be hard to guess. The gathered water may also hide potholes and electrical wires. Therefore, driving through flooded areas can be risky. Read more: Ways to Purify Water during Flood, Disaster, Emergency Situations Reduce Speed Slowly Wet roads can make tires lose contact with the road surface, a phenomenon known as hydroplaning. To avoid this, vehicles should maintain slower speeds during heavy rain. Choose Safe Parking Spots While parking a vehicle, avoid places under power lines, trees, or next to utility poles. These areas can pose risks during heavy rains, like falling branches and debris. Avoid Driving in Heavy Rain Poor visibility during heavy rainfall makes driving risky. If possible, drivers should park the vehicle and wait until the rain has slowed down or stopped before continuing the journey. Read more: Fire Safety in Apartments: Causes and Prevention

In recent years, several earthquakes have devastated different parts of the globe. Earthquakes are caused by sudden movement along tectonic plates within the surface of earth. These movements release energy in the form of seismic waves that cause the earth's surface to shake. These geological events disrupt lives and economies, standing as stark reminders of the need for earthquake preparedness. Let's take a look at the top earthquake-prone countries across the world and understand their vulnerabilities. The World's 10 Most Earthquake-prone Countries Japan Japan occupies a precarious position in the Pacific Ring of Fire, an arc characterized by fault lines and volcanic activity in the Pacific Ocean basin. This is the convergence of four tectonic plates: the Pacific, Philippine, Okhotsk, and Eurasian. The primary reason behind Japan's seismic vulnerability is the collision and subduction of these tectonic slabs. The Pacific Plate is subducting beneath the North American Plate, creating deep ocean trenches and mountain ranges. Read more Earthquake Safety Tips for Parents to Keep Children Safe The 2011 Tohoku earthquake, with a magnitude of 9.1, triggered a devastating tsunami, claiming around 19,759 lives. The 2016 Kumamoto earthquake, measuring magnitude 7, caused about 273 fatalities.