In situations where seconds matter the most, the result of a study, that found earthquake forecasts are possible with seconds to spare, might prove effective in saving hundreds of lives. Italian scientists say the effects of strong earthquakes can be predicted seconds before the destruction occurs, reports LiveScience. The research confirms a similar study announced by California researchers a year ago. Researchers in Italy analysed seismic signals from more than 200 moderate to strong earthquakes in the Mediterranean region, ranging from magnitude 4.0 to 7.4.