Earthquakes; A Closer Look at Their Genesis, and Their Aftermath. (Can Earthquakes be Predicted or Prevented?)

Introduction 

You probably would have heard about the devastating earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria. If you haven't, here's some insight.

February 6, 2023, was the day when an earthquake struck the regions of central Turkey and western Syria. The shockwave was so devastating that its effects rippled all across the Middle East. Estimated to have a magnitude of 7.8 on the Richter Scale (which is considered to be the magnitude of a major earthquake), the earthquake proved catastrophic as it caused more than 7000 estimated casualties and endangered the lives of millions of people, and caused large amounts of property damage. 

The scale of the disaster is truly overwhelming, with buildings and homes reduced to rubble, roads, and bridges damaged, and many people left without shelter, food, and water. 

It honestly boggles my mind that one natural event can bring about such a calamity.

My condolences to all who have lost their loved ones and to those who have been impacted by this tragedy. 

One might ask:

1. What even is an Earthquake?
2. Why does an Earthquake occur?
3. What effects does an Earthquake entail?

Here is a comprehensive passage that takes a closer look at Earthquakes, their Genesis, and their Aftermath.

What is an Earthquake?

Earthquake is a phenomenon in nature that has been occurring for millions of years. It consists of sudden and rapid shaking of the ground that lasts for a certain period of time. Earthquakes usually happen near geologic fault lines which are the regions where tectonic plates interact with each other; Further details of which are mentioned later. 

Seismic Sequence

The term "Seismic Sequence" is used to describe a series of recurrent earthquakes prior to or subsequent to a larger, more devastating earthquake. An Aftershock is a term used to describe a swarm of earthquakes following a major earthquake (that which has a magnitude of above 7 on the Rector Scale). 

Why does an Earthquake occur?

Earthquakes are caused by the movement of tectonic plates. Due to this motion, seismic waves are generated which when moving through the earth cause rapid ground movement. 

When the tectonic plates collide and grind against each other, stress is accumulated which is then released at its threshold in form of seismic waves.

The occurrence of earthquakes can be often attributed to several causes; both natural and artificial such as:

• Volcanic Eruptions.
• Artificial Induction (injected fluid into the ground).

What effects does an Earthquake entail?

So what other impacts do Earthquakes have besides chaos, calamity, loss of life, and general mayhem? 

Here are some additional negative ones:

• Earthquakes trigger tsunamis which are huge tidal waves that can reach up to 30 feet that can cause the annihilation of anything, mortal or material, standing in front of their way.
• Earthquakes cause landslides which result in the fertile land being washed away along with the loss of human and animal life and property.

But, they have some good benefits too; however, the positive benefits don't outweigh the negative ones in this case but are worth mentioning.

They are:

• Earthquakes play a crucial role in the formation of new mineral deposits.
• Earthquakes give life to new flora and fauna; as earthquakes have been observed to give rise to fertile land in some cases.

Can Earthquakes be predicted or prevented?

Although preventions are not possible when it comes to earthquakes. However, certain measures can be taken to minimize collateral damage, for example, buildings are made to withstand the shock waves of an earthquake, ultimately reducing the loss of human life.

Looking at it from a "prediction" perspective for the lack of a better term, there is a whole field of study that deals with predicting seismic activity called "Seismology". Seismologists study and observe certain tectonic plates and fluctuations in seismic activity which allows them to give warnings to the respective areas that they figure out are at risk. However, even with the advent of technology and the scientific method, Earthquakes cannot be predicted with absolute certainty. And even to this day, Earthquakes remain rather unforeseeable in nature.

Conclusion

To conclude, Earthquakes are natural events that outspread chaos and destruction. They are caused by the mobility of seismic waves under the ground and can lead to many short-term and long-term problems.

Earthquakes serve as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the vulnerability of communities in the face of natural disasters.

In case, you have an unfortunate encounter with an Earthquake (I pray not), you should know these guidelines as they would most certainly prove useful:

1. Prioritize protecting your head and neck as they are the most vulnerable.
2. Take cover under a table or a desk or a bed to protect yourself from the debris.
3. Try to stay away from tall buildings and if you are in one: evacuate when necessary.
4. Stay away from objects that could fall on you further leading to injuries or even worse.

Stay Safe!

References

If you want more information regarding these subject matters. Here are some links that I sought help from.

• Bolt, B. A. (2023, February 7). earthquake. Encyclopedia Britannica. 
• Wald, L. (2004). The Science of Earthquakes. The Green Frog News. Retrieved from U.S. Geological Survey website.

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