Discovery: earthquakes caused by... the Sun 🌍

The Sun, the source of life on Earth, could also influence earthquakes. A recent study explores how solar heat, by altering rock properties and underground water movements, plays a role in seismic activity.


This research, conducted by Japanese scientists, opens new perspectives for improving earthquake prediction. By integrating variations in Earth's temperature into their models, the researchers observed better accuracy, particularly for shallow earthquakes.

The link between the Sun and earthquakes

Scientists have long sought to understand the triggers of earthquakes. The movements of tectonic plates and the accumulation of energy are well known, but other factors, such as solar influence, remain to be explored.

A study published in Chaos reveals that solar heat modifies atmospheric temperatures, affecting rock properties and underground water movements. These changes can weaken rocks and influence pressures on tectonic plates.

The researchers analyzed seismic, solar, and Earth temperature data. They observed that adding surface temperatures improved the accuracy of forecasts, especially for shallow earthquakes.

Towards better earthquake prediction

Seasonal variations in seismic activity suggest a link with solar cycles. Fluctuations in heat and water mainly affect the upper Earth's crust, explaining this correlation.

Using advanced mathematical methods, the researchers identified dynamic information shared between solar activity and earthquakes. Although the link is not deterministic, it offers avenues for refining prediction models.

This discovery could help anticipate earthquakes, particularly in high-risk regions. Integrating solar forecasts into Earth's climate models represents a promising advancement for seismology.

To go further: How does solar heat affect rocks?

Solar heat modifies atmospheric temperatures, influencing rock properties. Thermal variations can make them more brittle, increasing the risk of fractures.

Temperature changes also affect underground water movements. Water infiltration can alter pressure on tectonic faults, contributing to seismic activity.

These processes, although subtle, play a role in the dynamics of the Earth's crust.