Earthquakes are natural geological phenomena involving sudden ground shaking caused by the rapid release of energy within the Earth's crust. This occurs...
Earthquakes are primarily caused by the sudden movement and slipping of tectonic plates along fault lines beneath the Earth's surface, releasing accumulated stress and energy.
Earthquakes are measured using seismographs, which detect seismic waves. Their magnitude is typically reported using the Moment Magnitude Scale (Mw), which indicates the energy released.
Currently, scientists cannot accurately predict the exact time, location, and magnitude of future earthquakes. However, probabilities can be assessed for certain regions.
During an earthquake, 'Drop, Cover, and Hold On.' Drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops. If outdoors, move to an open area away from buildings.
Magnitude measures the energy released at the earthquake's source, while intensity describes the severity of ground shaking and its observed effects at a particular location.