Earthquake risk

INFORMATION
SECURITY AND PREVENTION
Last updated: 05/03/2023

Prevention of the earthquake risk

Since 1966, regulations concerning earthquake-resistant constructions have been applied in the Principality. There is however no preventive alarm system as predicting an earthquake remains difficult.

Monaco and the Alpes Maritimes Region are located in areas of average seismic activity (level II). Current knowledge concerning the regional geology and past seismicity lead us to believe that a large scale earthquake is unlikely.

What should I do in the event of an earthquake?

Before the earthquake

To prepare yourself for a potential earthquake and limit the risks of the earthquake, you should:

  • Make sure anything that is hung up on the walls or ceilings is secure
  • Attach tall and heavy furniture to the wall
  • Have a battery-operated radio, an electric torch as well as a first aid kit handy
  • Ensure that all the members of your family know how to cut energy supplies (electricity, gas etc.)

During the earthquake

  • If you are inside a building, stay calm and get under a table. Alternatively, stand in a corner or in a door frame
  • If you are outside, stay there and avoid buildings
  • If you are in a car, stop the car and do not exit the vehicle before the end of the tremor

After an earthquake of moderate intensity

After an earthquake of moderate intensity which did not cause any apparent damage to buildings, you must:

  • Stay where you are
  • Listen to Radio Monte Carlo 98.9 Mhz on FM or Radio-France Info 105.7 Mhz on FM

After a high intensity earthquake

After a high intensity earthquake which caused obvious damage to buildings, you must:

  • Switch off sources of energy
  • Calmly evacuate the building, but do not take the lift
  • Listen to Radio Monte Carlo 98.9 Mhz on FM or Radio-France Info 105.7 Mhz on FM
  • Go to a place where no objects are falling, avoiding the façades of buildings

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