Earthquakes
Seismic activity near your location
What is it?
Earthquakes release stored tectonic energy as shaking. Magnitude is logarithmic — each whole step releases ~32× more energy — and local damage depends on depth, distance and building quality as much as the number.
How we measure it
Recent events near your coordinates from the USGS Earthquake Hazards Program feed: magnitude, depth, distance and time.
Magnitude effects (USGS)
- < 3.0Micro–minorRarely felt; instruments only
- 3.0–4.9LightFelt indoors; rattling; rarely damaging
- 5.0–5.9ModerateDamage to weak structures near the epicentre
- 6.0–6.9StrongDamaging up to ~100 km in populated areas
- 7.0+Major–greatSerious widespread damage
Within safe range
Frequent small quakes are normal in seismic zones and do not reliably predict larger ones — but they are a reminder to stay prepared.
Beyond the range
From ~M5.5 nearby, unreinforced masonry fails first; from M6+, ground shaking can rupture utilities and trigger landslides. Most injuries come from falling objects and collapsing non-structural elements, not total building collapse.
Precautions
- During shaking: Drop, Cover, Hold On — under sturdy furniture, away from glass.
- Do not run outside during shaking; stairs and facades are the danger zone.
- Anchor heavy shelves and water heaters; keep beds away from windows.
- Keep a go-bag: water, torch, first aid, copies of documents.
- After a strong quake, expect aftershocks; check gas before re-entering.