User:Elriana/sandbox3


 * Need to consider that Seismic hazard article exists***

Earthquake forecasting is a branch of the science of seismology concerned with the probabilistic assessment of general earthquake hazard, including the frequency and magnitude of damaging earthquakes in a given area over years or decades. While forecasting is usually considered to be a type of prediction, earthquake forecasting is often differentiated from earthquake prediction, whose goal is the specification of the time, location, and magnitude of future earthquakes with sufficient precision that a warning can be issued. Both forecasting and prediction of earthquakes are distinguished from earthquake warning systems, which upon detection of an earthquake, provide a real-time warning to regions that might be affected.

In the 1970s, scientists were optimistic that a practical method for predicting earthquakes would soon be found, but by the 1990s continuing failure led many to question whether it was even possible. Demonstrably successful predictions of large earthquakes have not occurred and the few claims of success are controversial. Consequently, many scientific and government resources have been used for probabilistic seismic hazard forecasts rather than prediction of individual earthquakes. Such forecasts are used to establish building codes, insurance rate structures, awareness and preparedness programs, and public policy related to seismic events.

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