The head of the National Research Institute for Astronomy and Geophysics (NRIAG) in Egypt, Gad al-Qady has refuted claims made by Dutch scientist Frank Hoogerbeets of a strong earthquake measuring 8.5 on the Richter scale in the coming hours.
Qady said during a telephone interview with “Al-Hadath Al-Youm” satellite channel on Sunday evening, that the Dutch scientist has nothing to do with professional astronomy or earthquake detection.
He accused the Dutch researcher’s claims of being baseless, no better than astrology, and that if he had real credibility more countries vulnerable to earthquakes would seek help from him.
Qady explained that the Dutch scientist’s warning about the occurrence of a huge and devastating earthquake in the coming hours is scientifically unfounded.
“He is an astrologer, and the media blows it out of proportion. The whole world does not hear or know anything about it,” he said.
The head of NRIAG also debunked reports of an asteroid colliding with the surface of the Earth, causing mass destruction.
Controversial claims
Hoogerbeets sparked controversy again on social media platforms, after predicting a devastating earthquake of great strength.
In an illustrative graph he published on his official account on “X” platform, formerly twitter, Hoogerbeets specified the location of the expected earthquake, saying: “Shape “M” represents a strong earthquake and the specific areas for its occurrence are approximate.”
He warned of very strong fluctuations, explaining that the strength of the seismic activity could reach 7.5 degrees or more.
Hoogerbeets sparked controversy after predicting a major earthquake day before the Moroccan earthquake that occurred on September 8, causing thousands of deaths and injuries.
He had previously warned against the possibility of devastating earthquakes, including the devastating earthquake that struck Turkey on February 6, which left more than 50,000 dead and tens of thousands injured.
