Earthquake safety
Photo: NASA, DTAM project team, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
Earthquakes are some of the most serious natural disasters. Fortunately major earthquakes occur, even on a global scale, only a few times a year and hence short-term visitors are very unlikely to end up in one. Nevertheless, if you do end up in one, there is a serious risk to your life and health.
UnderstandMinor earthquakes that are hardly noticeable can occur anywhere in the world. The truly disastrous ones occur mostly in these regions:
PrepareIn general, locals in earthquake-prone areas should know how to act if and when shaking starts. Follow their advice and example. Practices and best strategies differ between countries.
During an earthquakeEarthquakes are unpredictable—they will often just start without any prior warning signs.
After the earthquakeAfter the shaking has ended it's safe(r) to move again. Remember that earthquakes are often followed by smaller quakes called aftershocks that can occur minutes, hours or even days or months after the original quake.
See also
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Earthquake safety" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: NASA, DTAM project team, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons