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local
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Remote possibility for major earthquake
- Peter Cordina, CPD
By Kurt
Sansone
The recent
eruptions by Mount Etna in Sicily pose no risk for the Maltese
Islands and the Civil Protection Department advises that the risk
of a major earthquake striking the archipelago is remote.
The director
of the CPD, Peter Cordina told MaltaToday that although the risk
is very low, the department is prepared for any eventuality.
Mr Cordina
said that the department will act on the same lines as flash floods
and other disasters, for which contingency plans have already
been drafted.
Mr Cordina
informed MaltaToday that Government has appointed a scientific
committee to assist the CPD in case of natural and man-made disasters.
The committee comprises among others, a seismological expert from
the University of Malta.
If ever an
earthquake were to hit Malta, Mr Cordina advises people to take
cover inside a small room or under a robust table or similar piece
of furniture.
"The
operative word for all people should be ‘Stay Calm’
and ‘Do not rush out’. This is easier said than done,
however presence of mind is an all-important factor," Mr
Cordina remarked.
Furthermore,
when tremors stop, people should keep away from buildings and
other structures in danger of collapsing.
Mr Cordina
added that eventually people should collaborate with the rescue
services, including members of the CPD, the Armed Forces, the
Police and NGOs involved in rescue work.
Mount Etna
towers 3,315m above the city of Catania and has the longest documented
history of volcanic activism in the world. It is 220km to the
North of Malta. In the central Mediterranean region there are
13 active volcanoes.
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