Although Macao is not in the frequent seismic zone according to historical and geophysical information; but, to the east of Macao is the well known Circum-Pacific belt; to the west is the seismic belt of southern Himalayas and Yunnan province. Furthermore, with the Guangdong Province and the South China Sea that had experienced level 6 and above of Ritcher's scale, Macao is in the latent zone of seismic influence.
During recent years, Macao's economy developed rapidly. With large-scaled constructions, tall and a potential crowded buildings being constructed, the level of hazards from earthquakes increased accordingly. Therefore, there was a necessity to monitor and study the seismic activities of this zone. In mid-80's, the Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau (SMG) started monitoring the seismic activities of this region, A seismic monitoring station was set up on the hill top of the Coloane Island, with a set of Analog Seismograph at the beginning and later with an additional set of Digital Seismograph. Whenever an earthquake occurs, the seismic waves will be detected by the Seismograph, process by the amplifier, and will be transmitted to the center via wireless or telephone lines. It will then be recorded and filed by the analysts and observers, and the data will be released to governmental departments and required users. To improve and enhance our monitoring range, we started to work together with the Seismic Bureau of the Guangdong Province in the early-90's, and established a set of "ADT-1" seismic information feedback system.
The Bole Hole Digital Seismogram and Time Service System have been in service since 2003 and with effective outcome. We shall further enhance our work in the field of geoscience and prevention of natural disasters in the years ahead, aiming to better serve the citizens and safeguard our community’s safety with our professional knowledge.