Understanding Earthquakes: What to Know After Peru and Ecuador’s Tremor
Earthquakes can affect all corners of the globe and can be one of the most destructive forces that nature wrought. This was proven recently when a magnitude 7.5 earthquake rocked the coasts of Ecuador and Peru. To help you better understand earthquakes and what to do after a devastating event like this occurs, we have compiled a list of key points for you to consider.
What is an Earthquake?
An earthquake is a sudden, rapid shaking of the earth caused by the release of energy from the Earth’s crust. Earthquakes occur due to a sudden slip on a fault, which is a break in the rocks that form the Earth’s crust. The displaced part of the Earth’s crust creates seismic waves that cause the ground and the things attached to it (such as buildings) to shake. Earthquakes can range in magnitude from nearly imperceptible to catastrophic.
Tectonic Plates
Earthquakes occur when there are sudden slips and movements along plate boundaries. Plate tectonics is the theory that explains the movements of the Earth’s lithosphere, which is made up of the several large plates that make up the Earth’s crust. These plates are constantly moving due to the heat and pressure created by the Earth’s mantle. Movement can be in different directions, such as sidways, up, or down. When two plates meet, they lock and create immense pressure, causing cracks and faults. When the pressure becomes too great, the rocks suddenly slip and release energy, creating a sudden jerk, or earthquake.
Cause of Peru and Ecuador’s Earthquake
The recent earthquake to hit Peru and Ecuador was caused by a thrust fault in the oceanic crust located off the coast of the two countries. This earthquake was a very shallow one, striking around 20 kilometers below the surface.
Safety Tips for Earthquakes
The situation in Peru and Ecuador is a reminder for everyone that earthquakes can strike anywhere at any time. To make sure that you are as prepared as possible when you encounter an earthquake, here are some key safety tips to keep in mind.
• Use drop, cover, and hold. Drop to the ground and take cover under a heavy desk or table. Cover your head and neck with your arms and hands and hold on until the shaking stops.
• If you are in bed, stay there and protect your head with a pillow.
• Be aware of your surroundings and take note of any heavy objects that could potentially fall on you.
• Don’t run outside. If you are in a building when the earthquake strikes, stay inside until the shaking stops.
• Stay away from windows, doors and outside walls. These can create a hazard.
• If the earthquake is strong and you can’t move, stay in place and protect your head with your arms or a pillow.
• If you are driving, pull safely to the side of the road. Stay inside your vehicle until the shaking stops.
• If you are in a crowded store or public area, stay inside until the shaking stops and exit calmly when it’s safe.
• Avoid taking elevators unless it’s absolutely necessary.
Earthquake Damage
Earthquakes can cause a variety of damages that depend on the intensity of the shaking, the type of construction materials used to construct buildings, and the type of earth or soil that is shaken. Generally, an earthquake can cause broken gas and water lines, fallen power lines and poles, broken windows, and collapsed buildings and bridges. Earthquakes can also trigger tsunamis, mudslides, landslides, avalanches, and other secondary hazards.
In Peru and Ecuador, the earthquake caused serious damage to building and structures, particularly in the cities of Pedernales and Chimbo, as well as further inland in the Ecuador-Peru border region. Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra declared a state of emergency in the affected areas because of the strong shaking, which caused massive damage. The earthquake affected the towns of Valle, La Union, San Jacinto de Yaguachi, Chongon, and Milagro in Peru, and La Canela and Jamasqui, Ecuador.
After an Earthquake
Once the shaking stops and you assess that your safety is not at risk, you want to take further steps to ensure your safety and security. Here are some key steps to take:
• Check yourself to make sure you are not injured.
• Check your family, friends, and neighbors, to make sure they are safe.
• Check your home for damage and address any immediate safety concerns.
• If you have a gas spill, open doors and windows to ventilate.
• If you detect a fire, try to extinguish it or call 911.
• Do not operate electrical equipment or appliances if there is water damage.
• Make sure direct sunlight does not enter your home, as this can harm electrical equipment.
• Stay away from damaged buildings and places with potential hazardous materials, such as gas and chemical spills.
• If you experience aftershocks, drop, cover, and hold.
•Listen to radio, television, or other news outlets for updates.
Earthquakes can be very dangerous and destructive events that can occur at any time. As Peru and Ecuador are addressing the dangerous situation caused by the recent earthquake, it is important to remember key safety tips and take the necessary precautions before, during, and after an earthquake. This way, you can ensure your safety and the safety of your family and loved ones.
