Earthquakes In Austria: A Rare Occurrence?

Earthquakes in Austria are relatively infrequent. On average, the country experiences about 1,700 quakes per year, with magnitudes ranging from 1 to 6.5 on the Richter scale. The most recent earthquake in Austria occurred on October 23, 2024, and had a magnitude of 2.3. This quake was centred 33km south-east of Dornbirn, at a depth of 11km.

Austria's earthquake hazard level

On average, there are about 1,700 earthquakes per year in Austria, with around 20-21 of these being of magnitude 3 or higher. Earthquakes of magnitude 6 or higher occur approximately every 30-35 years.

The last earthquake in or near Austria occurred on October 24, 2024, and had a magnitude of 2.2. The strongest earthquake in the past 10 years occurred on December 29, 2020, and had a magnitude of 6.4.

Austria has had at least 4 earthquakes of magnitude 6 or higher since 1900. The most powerful earthquake ever recorded near Austria had a magnitude of 5.3 and took place on July 11, 2000.

It is important to understand the earthquake history of a place and the possibility that a large earthquake could affect the region. Building standards and regulations are essential to ensure safety and reduce potential damage.

Austria's earthquake history

Austria has a relatively low frequency of earthquakes. On average, the country experiences about 1,700 quakes per year, with magnitudes ranging from 1 to 6.5 on the Richter scale. However, it's important to note that the recording of earthquakes using scientific instruments only began around 1900, and community memory and historical accounts can provide valuable insights into the country's earthquake history before that.

Since 1900, Austria has experienced at least four earthquakes with magnitudes above 6. The most recent significant earthquake occurred on February 1, 2024, with a magnitude 4.5 in Gloggnitz, Lower Austria. This was followed by a magnitude 3.0 quake in Lech, Vorarlberg, on October 16, 2024.

In the past week, Austria has experienced a magnitude 2.2 earthquake in Schruns, Vorarlberg, on October 23, 2024. This quake had a shallow depth of 7 km and was felt by some people near the epicenter.

While Austria's earthquake hazard level is considered medium, with a 10% chance of potentially damaging earthquakes in the next 50 years, understanding the country's earthquake history is crucial for making informed decisions about project planning and construction in the region.

Austria's building regulations

Austria experiences a relatively high number of earthquakes, with an average of 48 earthquakes felt in the country each year. The country's building regulations are designed to mitigate the impact of earthquakes and ensure the safety of its residents. Here are some key aspects of Austria's building regulations:

• Building Codes and Standards: Austria has implemented specific building codes and standards aimed at enhancing the structural resilience of buildings against earthquakes. These regulations are based on the country's seismic hazard level and are designed to minimise damage and protect human life.
• Flexible Steel Skeleton: Designers and engineers incorporate a flexible steel skeleton, also known as rebar or reinforcement steel, into the concrete structures. This technique boosts the overall strength of the building and enhances its ability to withstand horizontal forces during an earthquake, reducing the likelihood of cracking and collapse.
• Base Isolation Systems: Some buildings in Austria utilise "base isolation" systems, which separate the building from its foundations using springs or runners. This technology, commonly used in Japan, allows the building to move independently during an earthquake, reducing the stress on its structure and minimising damage.
• Shock Absorbing Devices: In addition to base isolation, some buildings may be retrofitted with shock-absorbing devices. These devices can significantly reduce damage and prevent structural collapse by dissipating the energy of the earthquake.
• Site Selection and Soil Investigation: Building regulations emphasise the importance of careful site selection to minimise hazards. Geotechnical engineers conduct soil investigations to determine the physical properties of the soil, including liquefaction potential and stability. This information is crucial for designing appropriate foundation systems.
• Emergency Management and Evacuation: Austrian building regulations incorporate emergency management considerations. This includes the provision of well-located emergency exits, fire safety measures, and clear signage to facilitate safe and efficient evacuation during an earthquake or other crises.
• Non-Structural Components and Building Contents: Regulations also address the risk posed by non-structural elements and building contents, such as architectural finishes, equipment, and utility systems. Mitigation measures aim to limit damage to these components, preventing injuries, blocking exits, and reducing economic losses.
• Compliance and Quality Control: Strict adherence to building regulations and quality construction are emphasised. Regular testing of construction materials, periodic training of workers, and on-site evaluations ensure that the prescribed standards and construction processes are followed, enhancing the overall resilience of structures.

By implementing these building regulations, Austria aims to minimise the impact of earthquakes, protect its residents, and reduce the economic and environmental consequences associated with these natural disasters.

Austria's earthquake insurance

Austria has a medium earthquake hazard level, meaning there is a 10% chance of a potentially damaging earthquake in the next 50 years. While this is not a high risk, it is still important to consider the impact of earthquakes when designing and constructing buildings.

In the past 54 years, there have been about 1,700 quakes per year on average in Austria, with at least 4 above magnitude 6 since 1900. In the past 10 years, there have been 82 earthquakes of magnitude 4 or higher within 300km of Austria, with the strongest being a magnitude 6.4 earthquake in 2020.

When it comes to earthquake insurance in Austria, there are a few options available. Earthquake insurance can be purchased from the government or private insurers. This insurance can help cover financial losses, but it is important to note that it will not prevent damage, business interruption, injuries, or deaths. Here are some providers of earthquake insurance in Austria:

• GeoVera: GeoVera is a highly rated and user-friendly provider of residential insurance, including earthquake insurance. They are available in CA, OR, and WA.
• Austrian Association for Earthquake Engineering and Structural Dynamics: This association may be able to provide information and resources for obtaining earthquake insurance in Austria.

In addition to purchasing insurance, there are several other recommendations for medium earthquake-prone regions like Austria. These include understanding the earthquake history of the region, ensuring local building regulations are adequate, and engaging qualified technical professionals to ensure that design and construction are up to code. It is also important to consider the potential impact on utilities and access, as well as emergency management and evacuation plans.

Austria's earthquake statistics

Austria has relatively few earthquakes. On average, about 1,700 mostly small quakes occur every year. The country has a medium earthquake hazard level, with a 10% chance of a potentially damaging earthquake in the next 50 years.

Earthquake Frequency

In the past 24 hours, Austria has had five quakes of magnitudes up to 2.2. In the past seven days, the country has had 30 quakes of magnitudes up to 3.0.

On average, Austria experiences:

• 0.02-0.03 quakes of magnitude 6 or higher per year (or one quake every 62.5-31.3 years)
• 0.46-0.47 quakes of magnitude 5 or higher per year (or one quake every 2.2 years)
• 2.8 quakes of magnitude 4 or higher per year
• 20.5-20.8 quakes of magnitude 3 or higher per year
• 151-150 quakes of magnitude 2 or higher per year (or 12.5 quakes per month)
• 886-887 quakes of magnitude 1 or higher per year (or 74 quakes per month)

In the past 10 years, 82 earthquakes with a magnitude of four or higher occurred within a 300-kilometer range from Austria. This averages eight earthquakes yearly or one earthquake every 45 days.

Strongest Earthquakes

The strongest earthquake recorded near Austria in the past 10 years was a magnitude 6.4 earthquake on December 29, 2020.

The strongest earthquake recorded near Austria since 1900 was a magnitude 6.5 earthquake on May 6, 1976, 84 kilometers south-southeast of Klagenfurt am Wörthersee.

Earthquake Regions

The Austrian regions with the most earthquakes in 2024 were Tyrol, followed by Kaernten. The cities with the most quakes in 2024 were Innsbruck and Graz.

Frequently asked questions