Summary:
- Scientists are a long way from being able to predict earthquakes.
- A good prediction must be detailed and accurate.
- Where an earthquake will occur is the easiest feature to predict.
- Scientists cannot predict when quakes will occur even to within a few years.
- Seismometers can detect P-waves a few seconds before more damaging S-waves and surface waves arrive.
- In this time computers can shut down gas mains, electrical transmission lines, chemical plants, nuclear power plants, mass transit systems, airports, and roadways.