science π Earthquakes: What actually makes them happen? π€―
Earthquakes are triggered by centuries of slow strain loading on faults, combined with immediate tipping events. Researchers at the University of Hawaii at Manoa studied the southern San Andreas and San Jacinto faults in June 2026. They found that stress on several segments was at or above simulation limits, calling the system "critically loaded." Other triggers include stress from nearby ruptures, groundwater cycles, and human fluid injection. Ultimately, this research helps refine hazard models, though precise forecasting remains impossible.