Researchers at the University of Tokyo calculated the levels of "tidal stress" before major earthquakes of the past few decades and found that high levels of stress were often followed by major earthquakes. "We conclude that large earthquakes are more probable during periods of high tidal stress." Earth's tides are caused by the gravitational pull of the moon as it moves over the surface of the planet. Scientists point out that many large earthquakes of the past decade have happened a times when tidal stress wasn't a factor. Whether the phase of the moon can truly help predict large earthquakes remains to be seen.

Source: Washington Post September 13, 2016 18:32 UTC