8. Cause

The earth has 4 layers: the outer core, inner core, mantle and crust. The crust and the top of the mantle (the earth’s outer shell) are composed of many pieces, and they constantly move around, sliding and bumping into one another. These pieces are called tectonic plates and the edges of these plates are called plate boundaries. According to the United States Geological Survey, “The plate boundaries are made up of many faults, and most of the earthquakes around the world occur on these faults. Since the edges of the plates are rough, they get stuck while the rest of the plate keeps moving. Finally, when the plate has moved far enough, the edges unstick on one of the faults and there is an earthquake.” As these plates move, seismic waves shake the earth, all the way to the earth’s surface.

 

7. Can scientists predict earthquakes?

Scientists can’t predict when an earthquake will strike. Scientists know that earthquakes can happen in different faults in the future, they just can’t pinpoint when. There is no accurate way to predict the time, place, and magnitude of an earthquake.

 

6. The strongest earthquake in the Philippines was in 1897.

The strongest recorded quake in the country was in 1897 between the islands of Sulu and Basilan. It was an 8.7 magnitude quake. There were also 3 instances where the country was shook by magnitude 8.3 earthquakes: 1948 in Aklan, 1924 in Davao Oriental, and 1918 in the Celebes Sea. A 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit North Luzon in 1990 leaving 2,412 casualties.

Meanwhile, the strongest earthquake ever recorded in the world was in 1960 in Valdivia, Chile with a whopping 9.5 magnitude. The deadliest earthquake on record was an 8.0 magnitude earthquake in 1556 in Shaanxi, China, killing over 830,000 people.
In the event of an earthquake:

 

5. Don’t panic.

Try to keep a cool and calm head. Stay indoors if you’re indoors, stay outside if you’re already outside. If you’re outdoors, try to stay away from power lines, buildings, or to anything that might fall.

 

4. Crawl under sturdy or heavy furniture.

Try to protect your body by going hiding under furniture. Stay away from glass windows.

Here’s what you should do after an earthquake:

 

3. Check water, gas, and electric lines for damage.

Shut off valves immediately when damaged. If you smell gas, open the window and leave the building immediately. Don’t use matches, candles, or any open flame.

 

2. Check yourself and others for injuries

Treat the injuries of those in need. If you’re at school or at work, follow the emergency plan and listen to the person in charge.

 

1. Before an earthquake

Make sure you have a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, radio, and spare batteries. Make up an emergency plan of where to meet your loved ones should such a scenario happen. Also, participate in earthquake drills to practice readiness.

Remember, disaster preparedness is everyone’s business.