The Earthquake Monitoring Centre at Sultan Qaboos University launched the Oman Strong Motion Network, comprising 100 advanced stations distributed across the various governorates and wilayats of the Sultanate of Oman. The network is designed to monitor seismic activity and ground vibrations at the moment they occur, supporting rapid national response efforts to protect communities and vital infrastructure.

The launch ceremony, held under the patronage of His Highness Sayyid Dr. Fahd bin Al Julanda Al Said, the Vice-Chancellor, also featured a series of accompanying workshops running over three days.

Dr. Issa Al-Hussain, Director of the Earthquake Monitoring Centre, stated that the launch of the Oman Strong Motion Network (OSMN) is a national achievement that represents a qualitative leap in seismic monitoring. The network consists of 100 stations distributed throughout Oman, capable of recording strong ground motions resulting from local and regional earthquakes with high accuracy and in real time.

He added that the network employs highly sensitive instruments capable of recording a wide range of frequencies and ground motions. These are complemented by advanced communication systems that enable real-time data transmission to the Earthquake Monitoring Centre at SQU. This system is integrated with the National Seismic Network to form a comprehensive framework that combines seismic recordings with strong motion data, which are particularly valuable for planners and structural engineers.

Dr. Al-Hussain explained that the primary goal of establishing the Strong Motion Network is to ensure precise monitoring of ground vibrations in various environments, such as mountainous and desert regions, to better understand how the ground and structures respond during earthquakes. The network also enables the production of immediate shake maps, issued within minutes of a seismic event, providing a real-time picture of the earthquake’s intensity and impact.

He further noted that the network supports research and engineering applications by providing a reference database for engineers and researchers. This will contribute to the development of earthquake-resistant design standards and improved urban planning. The network complements the existing Omani Seismic Monitoring Network, enhancing Oman’s ability to monitor both weak and strong seismic activity, and providing a more comprehensive and accurate picture of seismic hazards.

The Director of the Earthquake Monitoring Centre emphasised that strengthening the network contributes to building national capabilities in the fields of Earth sciences and earthquake engineering. It also supports the development of skilled human resources capable of working with advanced technologies, and promotes scientific research by providing high-quality data to universities and research centres at the national and regional levels. Moreover, it bolsters digital infrastructure through real-time applications such as spectral analysis and automatic alerts.