Earthquakes Facts: Earthquakes are one of the most powerful and devastating natural phenomena on our planet, caused by the sudden movement of tectonic plates along fault lines in the Earth's crust. These seismic waves can travel for great distances, causing widespread destruction and loss of life, and can also trigger secondary events like tsunamis and landslides. Scientists use advanced technology and seismic monitoring systems to study earthquakes, assess their risks, and predict their occurrence to help mitigate their impact. Understanding earthquake facts and the geological forces that drive them is crucial to our ability to prepare, respond, and recover from these catastrophic events.
Disaster Strikes: The Devastating 2011 Japan Earthquake and Tsunami
In 2011, a magnitude 9.0 earthquake struck off the coast of Japan, causing a tsunami that killed nearly 20,000 people and caused nuclear meltdowns at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant.
