Summary
An earthquake happens when two blocks of the earth suddenly slip past one another. Earthquakes strike suddenly, violently, and without warning at any time of the day or night. If an earthquake occurs in a populated area, it may cause property damage, injuries, and even deaths. If you live in a coastal area, there is the possibility of a tsunami. Damage from earthquakes can also lead to floods or fires.
Although there are no guarantees of safety during an earthquake, you can take actions to protect yourself. You should have a disaster plan. Being prepared can help reduce fear, anxiety, and losses. If you do experience a disaster, it is normal to feel stressed. You may need help in finding ways to cope.
Federal Emergency Management Agency
Learn More
- Earthquake Hazards (U.S. Geological Survey)
- Earthquakes (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) Also in Spanish
- Federal Emergency Management Agency Also in Spanish
- Landslides and Mudslides (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) Also in Spanish
Journal Articles References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)
- Article: Spatio-temporal characterization of earthquake sequence parameters and forecasting of strong aftershocks...
- Article: Sociopolitical Factors and Mental Health Following the Turkey-Syria Earthquake.
- Article: Gratitude practice helps undergraduates who experienced an earthquake in China find...
- Earthquakes -- see more articles