Natural Disasters: Earthquake Basics

Earthquake Overview

• Also known as quake, tremor, or temblor; involves shaking of the ground.
• Result from the sudden movement of rock materials beneath the Earth's surface.
• Highly destructive with significant global loss of life and property annually.

Notable Earthquake Events

• 1990 Luzon Earthquake:
  • Date: July 16, 1990.
  • Magnitude: 7.8, epicenter near Rizal, Nueva Ecija, Philippines.
  • Casualties: Estimated 1,621 people killed.
• Recent earthquake in northern Philippines resulted in 5 fatalities and 60 injuries.

Causes of Earthquakes

• Primary cause: Sudden slipping of tectonic plates at the edges of Earth's crust.
• Other causes:
  • Underground explosions (nuclear).
  • Volcanic eruptions.
  • Collapse of rock formations.

Earthquake Preparedness

• Understand risks associated with earthquakes.
• Practice DROP, COVER, and HOLD ON to prevent injuries.
• Secure your living area to minimize hazards.
• Develop a plan to stay connected and learn emergency skills.
• Gather essential emergency supplies.

Actions During an Earthquake

• Inside a building: Stay calm and drop to the ground, cover yourself, and hold on.
• Keep away from windows, shelves, and heavy objects.
• After shaking stops, exit to a designated evacuation area.
• Outside: Move to open areas away from buildings, trees, and electric posts.
• If in a vehicle, stop and exit once it's safe.

After an Earthquake

• Expect aftershocks; continue to practice DROP, COVER, and HOLD ON.
• Stay informed and connected with family and emergency services.
• Focus on personal safety and self-care post-disaster.

Flood Overview

• Definition: Temporary overflow of water onto normally dry land.
• Causes include rainfall, snow, coastal storms, storm surges, river overflow, and dam failure.
• Floods can lead to casualties primarily through drowning when evacuation is ignored.

Notable Flood Events

• Tropical Storm Ondoy (2009):
  • Death Toll: 464.
  • Region: Metro Manila.
  • Damages: Approximately $670 million.
• Typhoon Sendong (2011):
  • Death Toll: 1,453.
  • Region: Cagayan de Oro City, Mindanao.
  • Damages: Approximately $45 million.

Causes of Flooding

• Natural Causes:
  • Intense rainfall and overflowing of rivers/lakes.
• Human Causes:
  • Poor infrastructure decisions and obstruction of waterways.
  • Issues from solid waste disposal and deforestation.

Flood Preparedness

• Assess flood risk for your home, workplace, and school.
• Create alternative routes and a family communication plan.
• Follow evacuation orders promptly when issued.

Actions During a Flood

• Avoid driving or walking into floodwaters.
• Evacuate immediately if instructed; seek higher ground.
• Stay informed through local news or mobile devices.

After a Flood

• Avoid entering damaged areas and floodwaters.
• Wait for "all clear" before re-entering affected structures.
• Communicate with loved ones via text or social media to keep phone lines clear.

This quiz delves into the fundamentals of earthquakes, exploring their causes, effects, and historical significance. Learn about one of the most destructive natural disasters that impact communities worldwide, including details about the 1990 Luzon earthquake. Test your knowledge on this vital topic that shapes our understanding of geology and safety.