Earthquakes: The Unpredictable Force of Nature

Were you aware that over 55 earthquakes occur every day across the world? While most of these are too small to be felt, some can change lives in seconds.

These sudden tremors remind us of the raw, unpredictable power beneath the surface, capable of reshaping landscapes, cities, and even the course of history without warning. Earthquakes are a force of nature we can’t control, but we must always acknowledge their impact. 

Beneath your feet, the Earth is constantly shifting. Earthquakes, which are a consequence of these shifts, have occurred for millions of years. However, recent trends suggest they are increasing. Why is that? More importantly, how can we protect ourselves? We will discuss this here.

Reference: usgs.gov

What is an Earthquake?

The Earth’s surface comprises tectonic plates that slowly shift over time. When these plates collide, pull apart, or slide past each other, pressure builds up and is suddenly released, causing the ground to shake.

So, to put it very simply, an earthquake is the sudden shaking of the Earth’s surface due to movements in its outer layer, known as the crust.

Reference:bgs.ac.uk

Reference:seismo.gov.in

How Do Earthquakes Occur?

Tectonic plates are constantly moving, and their interactions lead to different types of earthquakes, such as:

Convergent Boundaries (Colliding Plates): When the tectonic plates push against each other, one slips under the other, creating powerful quakes. Japan’s 2011 Earthquake and tsunami, which had a magnitude of 9.0, is an example of colliding plates.

Divergent Boundaries (Pulling Apart Plates): When the tectonic plates separate, they create cracks in the Earth's crust. Iceland experiences such frequent small quakes.

Transform Boundaries (Sliding Plates): When plates grind past each other, the stress causes violent shaking. California’s San Andreas Fault is infamous for such earthquakes.

Reference:usgs.gov

Reference:pnsn.org

What Causes Earthquakes?

While tectonic activity is the main cause of earthquakes, other factors can also contribute to their occurrence. Discover the natural and human-induced causes below.

Natural Causes

Human-Induced Earthquakes (Induced Seismicity)

Reference:bgs.ac.uk

Reference:usgs.gov

Are Earthquakes Increasing? What do Scientists Say

Every other day, you might get news of earthquakes around the world. While global warming and man-made factors have contributed to increased earthquakes in the past decade, our ability to detect and feel them could be adding to the increase. Here’s what research says.

• Major earthquakes (Magnitude 6.0+) have remained stable for decades.
• Due to improved technology, smaller quakes (Magnitude 3.0-5.0) are detected more frequently.
• Urbanisation in earthquake-prone areas makes tremors more noticeable.
• Climate change & glacial melting may be affecting plate movements. 

Reference:timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Earthquake-Prone Regions: Where Are Quakes Most Common?

Recent Example: The 2023 Turkey-Syria Earthquake (Magnitude 7.8) was one of the deadliest quakes in recent history.

Reference:bgs.ac.uk

Recent Earthquakes Around the World

Here are some of the most recent and notable earthquakes that occurred around the world:

1 Turkey-Syria Earthquake (February 2023) - Magnitude 7.8 

This devastating earthquake impacted both Turkey and Syria, resulting in widespread destruction and thousands of casualties.

Reference:disasterphilanthropy.org

2 Nepal (December 2024) – Magnitude 5.2 (max)

A series of earthquakes occurred, the largest measuring magnitude 5.2 on December 20. The epicentre was in Bajura District, and tremors were felt across parts of Nepal and India. No significant damage or casualties were reported.

Reference:risingnepaldaily.com

3 Hindu Kush Earthquake (January 2025) - Magnitude 6.9

This quake was felt in multiple countries, including Afghanistan and Pakistan, but with fewer damages due to its depth and rural location.

Reference:thehillstimes.in

4 Chile (March 6, 2025) -  Magnitude 6.1

An earthquake of magnitude 6.1 struck northern Chile, with its epicentre located 104 kilometres southwest of San Pedro de Atacama. The quake occurred at a depth of 93 kilometres, and fortunately, there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage and no tsunami warning was issued.

Reference:apnews.com

Earthquake Safety: How to Protect Yourself

You don’t need to wait for an official alert to take action. Here are simple steps to ensure your safety:

Before an Earthquake: Be Prepared

During an Earthquake: What to Do

After an Earthquake: Stay Safe

Reference:ready.gov

Stay Prepared, Stay Safe!

While the factors causing earthquakes have increased, we might just be noticing them more due to better technology. But remember, earthquakes can strike anytime; being prepared can make all the difference. Review your emergency plans, create a safety kit, and stay informed about seismic activity.

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Till next time...

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