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Google tests earthquake, tsunami detection solutions with submarine cables

Google is testing its earthquake and tsunami warning system with existing network of undersea fibre optic cables. These cables are used to carry data, and internet, across continents. Seismic activity can be detected by tracking mechanical disturbances along the cables.

In October 2019, Google started performing spectral analysis of Stokes parameters to look at frequencies that are typical of earthquakes. About two months later, it detected a magnitude 7.7 earthquake near Jamaica.