Earthquake

Earthquake

  • An earthquake is the sudden, sometimes violent movement of the earth’s surface from the release of energy in the earth’s crust.
  • Approximately 75% of the world’s seismic energy is released along the edges of the Pacific Ocean, where the thinner Pacific plate is forced beneath thicker continental crust. This 40,000 kilometer band of seismicity also known as the “Ring of Fire,” stretches up the west coasts of South and Central America and from the North American continent to the Aleutians, Japan, China, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Australia.
  • Active volcanoes in Hawaiʻi cause numerous earthquakes per day, most of which are too small to be registered by anything other than sensitive scientific equipment.

Before an Earthquake

  • Have a Family Earthquake Readiness Plan.
  • Locate a safe place in each room of the house.
  • Know how to turn off your gas and water main.

During an Earthquake

  • Drop down; take cover under a desk or table.
  • Stay indoors until the shaking stops and you’re sure it’s safe to exit outdoor.
  • Stay away from windows. In a high-rise building, expect the fire alarms and sprinklers to go off during a quake.
  • If you are outdoors, find a clear spot away from buildings, trees, and power lines. Drop to the ground.
  • If you are in a car, slow down and drive to a clear place. Stay in the car until the shaking has stopped and it’s safe to continue driving.