Factors influencing the extent of damage

-Magnitude of earthquake

Of the average 6000 earthquakes detected per year, 5500 are not felt directly. They have magnitudes of 1 to 3. Another 450 felt cause only minor damage and have magnitudes of about 3 to 5. The rest of the 15 result in large damages, having magnitudes of about 6 and above on the Richter Scale.

-Depth of focus

A shallow focus is found in depths of not more then 70 kilometres. These earthquakes are the most devastating.

-Proximity to the epicentre

Areas closer to the epicentre suffer worse damages them areas further away.

-Geology of epicentre

An epicentral area made of solid rocks will not suffer much damage as one made on soft rocks.

-Types of Buildings

Flimsy and old buildings are a danger to many lives as they are not stable. Buildings should be reinforced to withstand earthquakes.

-Forecasting earthquakes

There will be less damage and loss of lives if earthquakes can be predicted so as to forewarn the people.

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