Supervolcano: Singapore

by Tringapore

Most people know that Singapore is located far away from a tectonic plate and hence it is impossible for earthquakes and volcanoes to happen there. However, what if Singapore was a super volcano waiting to blow? This story will explore the scenario where Singapore is a super volcano and the events that will occur if it erupts.

12. Chapter 11

USGS Geologist Robby Hugh of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory (YVO) and Steve Richardson of the Cascades Volcano Observatory (CVO) arrived at Changi International Airport. They brought along a special guest from the Japan Metrological Agency. Her name was Yui Hisagawa. She specialised in studying earthquakes and interpreting them. The 3 of them were getting their luggage and equipment when they felt a tremor. It shook the ground but was over within about 15 seconds. The 3 of them knew this wasn't good so they quickly got all their belongings and equipment and called a taxi to go to the EOS where they were needed.

Nearly an hour later, they finally arrived at the EOS. They immediately asked for directions to the earthquake research centre. There they met Professor David Ong and his colleague Sam Wong. After a brief introduction the 5 of them got to work setting up the equipment and monitoring the seismograph.

For about 4 hours nothing happened. Professor David Ong and Sam were baffled. Normally there'd be at least 4-5 small earthquakes by now. This just did not make sense. Suddenly, the computer lit up and the alarm sounded. Earthquake instruments measured a magnitude 4.9. The computer showed: WARNING: Magnitude 4.9 struck on November 26th 2015. Location and depth: 5.5km beneath Resorts World Sentosa. Another earthquake struck. This time it measured a magnitude 3.5 and it struck Lower Pierce reservoir. A 3rd earthquake struck. It measured 4.5 and struck Upper Pierce reservoir. All three earthquakes struck within seconds from each other. Professor Ong and Sam were shocked while the USGS and Japanese geologists were surprised.

"Damm. What have we been missing out here?" Geologist Robby asked.

"Nothing much other than the few thousand earthquakes that have struck now," Sam said jokingly.

"This is a worrying sign. We must set up ground movement detectors all around the island before it's too late," Geologist Steve said

"Why not the 3 of you guys go while me and Sam will stay here and continue monitoring the situation?" Geologist Yui asked.

"Great idea. In that case, let's start going," Steve said.