Understanding The Energy Of Earthquakes

In 2010, we saw floods in Pakistan, China and the United States, a massive earthquake in Haiti, crippling heatwaves in Russia, and massive ice melts in the Arctic…not to mention that it was the hottest year on record–yet again.

Now, only four months into 2011, we’ve seen massive earthquakes in Argentina, China, Chile, and most notably, in Japan. And for the past week, horrendous rain storms and tornadoes carved a trail across the Southeastern United States, reducing homes and stores to piles of rubble, and taking the lives of over 300 people.

There is much that we still don’t understand about natural disasters, but as the infographic below demonstrates, they are extremely powerful.

Take a good look at how earthquakes stack up against other destructive forces, like TNT and nuclear bombs, and then check out Care2′s recommendations for how you can prepare for a natural disaster.

Also Check Out:
Earthquake Preparedness: Are You Ready For 6.7?

Disaster Preparation for Pets

Is the US Ready if a 9.0 Earthquake Struck?

Image Created by Wellhome.com Insulation and Energy Audits

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Duane B.

8:47AM PST on Feb 6, 2013

Thank you for sharing.

February 6
send a green star

Terry V.

1:49PM PST on Jan 12, 2013

thanks

January 12
send a green star

Nimue P.

10:18PM PST on Dec 3, 2012

We had a 4.4 earthquake last year and it scared the hell out of me, I would hate to be in a big one. Thanks.

December 3
send a green star

Heidi A.

12:56AM PST on Nov 8, 2012

I can't believe the North Ridge quake in L.A. County was only a 6.7 magnitude. I live more than 135 miles away and the handles on my dresser and the bed its self shook very violently for a few moments. I was in bed when it happened. I have a hard time believing it only registered 6.7. It fell complete overpasses. People on their way to work, on their morning daily commute, died from either the overpass collapsing atop them or collapsing beneath them. It really was terrible. A motorcycle police officer on his way to work, suddenly had the entire road collapse in front of him driving 65 mph. He drove over the edge and fell to his death. There were alot of cars that did the same. Earthquakes are truly scary.