Crimean Bridge at Risk of Collapse from Earthquakes, Scientist Warns
Ukrainian seismologist Dmytro Hryn states that the Crimean Bridge could be destroyed by natural disasters, not just Ukrainian attacks, as it was built in a seismically hazardous zone. He claims Russia altered building codes to justify construction.
The Crimean Bridge, connecting Russia to the annexed Crimean peninsula, could collapse without any military intervention, according to Ukrainian seismologist Dmytro Hryn. He argues that the bridge's structure is extremely vulnerable to earthquakes that periodically hit the region, and its destruction is only a matter of time.
Hryn explains that Russia built the bridge across the Kerch Strait in a geologically and seismically unsuitable location. The strait has unstable soil and lies in a zone of active tectonic faults between the Kerch and Taman peninsulas. To justify construction in such a dangerous area, Russia deliberately changed national building codes, reducing the required seismic rating, the scientist claims.
"Processes are underway that are irreversible for this bridge. The region's earthquakes will finish it off sooner or later, even without our missiles," Hryn stated. He recalled that in 1927, Crimea experienced a magnitude 9 earthquake that caused widespread destruction, and a similar event could recur at any time.
Recent seismic activity in the region includes a series of earthquakes on June 22, with the strongest reaching 4.2 magnitude. The epicenters were in the Black Sea at depths of 10–25 km, and tremors were felt in several districts of Sevastopol. Another earthquake of 3.1 magnitude was recorded on June 24 near the Crimean coast.
Hryn emphasizes that even relatively mild tremors have a negative impact on the bridge's structure, gradually reducing its strength. He warns that the bridge could collapse without Ukrainian involvement, solely due to natural forces.
