Fact Check: Are earthquakes common in Thailand?

Are Earthquakes Common in Thailand?

Introduction

The claim that "earthquakes are common in Thailand" raises questions about the frequency and impact of seismic activity in the region. While Thailand is not typically known for high seismicity compared to neighboring countries like Indonesia, it does experience earthquakes. This article will explore the available data and research to provide a clearer picture of the situation.

What We Know

1. Historical Context: Thailand has experienced earthquakes throughout its history, with documented events going back to 624 B.C. 1. However, the frequency and intensity of these earthquakes vary significantly.

2. Current Data: According to the ASEAN Earthquake Information Center, Thailand has had approximately 264 earthquakes per year on average over the past 55 years, with larger earthquakes (magnitude 6 or above) occurring infrequently—about every 5 to 10 years 5.

3. Magnitude and Impact: Earthquakes of magnitude 5.0-5.9 occur roughly 1,500 times a year globally, but in Thailand, the occurrence of such earthquakes is less frequent. Stronger earthquakes (magnitude 6.0 and above) have been recorded, but they are rare 3.

4. Seismic Hazard Assessment: A probabilistic seismic hazard assessment indicates that while Thailand is not in a high-risk seismic zone, there are active faults that could potentially lead to significant earthquakes 7.

5. Recent Events: Reports indicate that there have been at least four earthquakes of magnitude 6 or higher since 2000, suggesting that while larger earthquakes are not common, they do occur 5.

Analysis

The claim regarding the commonality of earthquakes in Thailand requires careful examination of the sources and data available:

1. Source Reliability:

   • Wikipedia 1: While it provides a broad overview, Wikipedia can be edited by anyone, which raises concerns about the accuracy of specific entries. However, it cites credible sources for its data.
   • Earthquake List 2: This source appears to compile data from various seismic monitoring organizations, but its methodology for data collection is not clearly outlined, which could affect reliability.
   • CICC 3: This source comes from Chulalongkorn University, a reputable institution in Thailand, and provides a scientific perspective on earthquake likelihood. Its data appears to be well-researched and credible.
   • Volcano Discovery 45: This site aggregates earthquake data but does not specify its data sources, which could lead to questions about the accuracy and completeness of the information presented.

2. Bias and Conflicts of Interest:

   • Some sources, particularly those linked to governmental or educational institutions, may have a vested interest in promoting awareness of seismic risks for public safety. This can lead to a bias in presenting information that emphasizes the potential dangers of earthquakes.
   • Conversely, sources that downplay the frequency of earthquakes may do so to attract tourism or investment, potentially leading to underreporting of risks.

3. Methodology and Evidence:

   • The methodologies used to assess earthquake frequency and impact vary across sources. For example, the CICC's probabilistic assessment is based on historical data and geological studies, which lends credibility to its findings 3. However, the lack of systematic data collection prior to 2010 in some sources may limit the understanding of long-term trends 4.

4. Contextual Factors:

   • Thailand's geographical location places it near several tectonic plate boundaries, but it is not as seismically active as countries like Indonesia. This context is crucial for understanding why earthquakes may not be considered "common" in the same way they are in more active regions.

Conclusion

Verdict: Mostly False

The assertion that "earthquakes are common in Thailand" is misleading. While Thailand does experience earthquakes, the frequency and intensity of significant seismic events are relatively low compared to more seismically active regions. Data indicates that larger earthquakes (magnitude 6 or above) occur infrequently, approximately every 5 to 10 years, and the overall seismic activity is not high.

However, it is important to recognize that the term "common" can be subjective and context-dependent. The historical context and the presence of active faults suggest that while earthquakes do occur, they are not a regular occurrence in the daily lives of most residents.

The evidence available has limitations, particularly regarding the methodologies used in different studies and the potential biases of various sources. Readers should critically evaluate the information presented and consider the nuances involved in discussions about seismic activity in Thailand.

Sources

1. List of earthquakes in Thailand - Wikipedia. Link
2. The complete Thailand earthquake report (up-to-date 2025). Link
3. Likelihood of Earthquakes in Thailand - Chulalongkorn University. Link
4. Earthquake statistics: Thailand - Volcano Discovery. Link
5. Latest Earthquakes in or near Thailand: Today and Recently - Volcano Discovery. Link
6. ASEAN Earthquake Information Center. Link
7. Seismic hazards in Thailand: a compilation and updated probabilistic assessment. Link
8. ASEAN Earthquake Information Center. Link
9. Myanmar-Thailand earthquake: Are quakes becoming too frequent? - Economic Times. Link
10. PDF Disaster Loss and Damage Assessment in Thailand - Asia-Pacific Network. Link