Azerbaijan is one of the seismically active regions and various underground tremors are periodically recorded. Although scientists cannot predict the exact time of an earthquake, they emphasize that the risk exists. Therefore, it is very important to comply with safety rules and increase awareness. So, could a strong earthquake occur in Azerbaijan in the near future?
Regarding the topic, Gulam Babayev, Head of the Seismology and Seismic Hazard Assessment Department at the Institute of Geology and Geophysics of the Ministry of Science and Education, Doctor of Science, Associate Professor, told Medianews.az that Azerbaijan cannot remain stable or aside from the seismic activity of the region. In accordance with the laws of physics, there must be dynamic movement in Azerbaijan as well.
According to the expert, unlike Turkey and Iran, the displacement processes and the processes occurring at depth in Azerbaijan are not as intense:
“The probability of strong and destructive earthquakes is low. I do not believe a destructive earthquake will occur in Azerbaijan. The rate of displacement in other countries is higher than in Azerbaijan. The displacement rate in Azerbaijan is not as intense compared to other countries. However, earthquakes that can be felt are not excluded.”
Gulam Babayev emphasized that the felt earthquakes are usually between magnitude 3.5 and 5:
“Here the depth also plays a significant role. For example, if an earthquake of magnitude 5.5 occurs at a depth of 50-60 km, its effect on the surface may weaken because seismic waves have an absorption coefficient. If an earthquake of magnitude 3.4 occurs near the surface, at a depth of 8-10 km, it will already be felt and could even cause some panic. But strong and destructive earthquakes occurring in Azerbaijan are exceptional and not expected.”
Oguz Ayvaz,
Medianews.az
