What Does An Earthquake Feel Like? | U.S. Geological Survey

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1. Frequently Asked Questions
2. Natural Hazards

What does an earthquake feel like?

The way an earthquake feels depends on where you are, where the earthquake is, and how big the earthquake is:

• A large earthquake nearby will feel like a sudden large jolt followed quickly by more strong shaking that may last a few seconds or up to a couple of minutes if it's a rare great event. The shaking will feel violent and it will be difficult to stand up. The contents of your house will be a mess.

• A large earthquake far away will feel like a gentle bump followed several seconds later by stronger rolling shaking that may feel like sharp shaking for a little while.

• A small earthquake nearby will feel like a small sharp jolt followed by a few stronger sharp shakes that pass quickly.

• A small earthquake far away will probably not be felt at all, but if you do feel it, it will be a subtle gentle shake or two that is easier to feel if you're still and sitting down.

The type of crustal material the seismic waves travel through on their way to you, and the type of shallow crustal structure that is directly below you will also influence the shaking you feel. Soft thick sediments will amplify the shaking and hard rock will not. If the energy happens to bounce around and get focused on where you are, that will also amplify the shaking. Low-level vibrations that last for more than a few seconds is not indicative of an earthquake, but is more likely a man-made environmental source.

Related

• FAQ
• Multimedia
• Publications
• News

Items per page 6 12 Label

At what magnitude does damage begin to occur in an earthquake? At what magnitude does damage begin to occur in an earthquake?

It isn't that simple. There is not one magnitude above which damage will occur. It depends on other variables, such as the distance from the earthquake, what type of soil you are on, building construction, etc. That being said, damage does not usually occur until the earthquake magnitude reaches somewhere above 4 or 5. Learn more: Glossary of earthquake terms Earthquake Magnitude, Energy Release...

At what magnitude does damage begin to occur in an earthquake?

At what magnitude does damage begin to occur in an earthquake?

It isn't that simple. There is not one magnitude above which damage will occur. It depends on other variables, such as the distance from the earthquake, what type of soil you are on, building construction, etc. That being said, damage does not usually occur until the earthquake magnitude reaches somewhere above 4 or 5. Learn more: Glossary of earthquake terms Earthquake Magnitude, Energy Release...

Learn More

What are those booms I sometimes hear before or during an earthquake? What are those booms I sometimes hear before or during an earthquake?

"Booms" have been reported for a long time, and they tend to occur more in the Northeastern US and along the East Coast. Of course, most "booms" that people hear or experience are actually some type of cultural noise, such as some type of explosion, a large vehicle going by, or sometimes a sonic boom, but there have been many reports of "booms" that cannot be explained by man-made sources. No one...

What are those booms I sometimes hear before or during an earthquake?

What are those booms I sometimes hear before or during an earthquake?

"Booms" have been reported for a long time, and they tend to occur more in the Northeastern US and along the East Coast. Of course, most "booms" that people hear or experience are actually some type of cultural noise, such as some type of explosion, a large vehicle going by, or sometimes a sonic boom, but there have been many reports of "booms" that cannot be explained by man-made sources. No one...

Learn More

Why do earthquakes in other countries seem to cause more damage and casualties than earthquakes in the U.S.? Why do earthquakes in other countries seem to cause more damage and casualties than earthquakes in the U.S.?

There is more damage and more deaths from earthquakes in other parts of the world primarily because of buildings which are poorly designed and constructed for earthquake regions, and population density.

Why do earthquakes in other countries seem to cause more damage and casualties than earthquakes in the U.S.?

Why do earthquakes in other countries seem to cause more damage and casualties than earthquakes in the U.S.?

There is more damage and more deaths from earthquakes in other parts of the world primarily because of buildings which are poorly designed and constructed for earthquake regions, and population density.

Learn More

How does an earthquake affect groundwater levels and water quality in wells? How does an earthquake affect groundwater levels and water quality in wells?

Groundwater levels in wells can oscillate up and down when seismic waves pass. The water level might remain higher or lower for a period of time after the seismic waves end, but sometimes a long-term offset of groundwater levels follows an earthquake. The largest recorded earthquake-induced offset in a well is a one meter rise. Water quality can also be affected by earthquakes, typically in...

How does an earthquake affect groundwater levels and water quality in wells?

How does an earthquake affect groundwater levels and water quality in wells?

Groundwater levels in wells can oscillate up and down when seismic waves pass. The water level might remain higher or lower for a period of time after the seismic waves end, but sometimes a long-term offset of groundwater levels follows an earthquake. The largest recorded earthquake-induced offset in a well is a one meter rise. Water quality can also be affected by earthquakes, typically in...

Learn More

Where can I find photographs of earthquake damage? Where can I find photographs of earthquake damage?

Two sources for photographs that show earthquake damage are: Earthquake Hazards Program - Earthquake Photo Collections U.S. Geological Survey Photographic Library (see 'earthquakes' in the categories left column)

Where can I find photographs of earthquake damage?

Where can I find photographs of earthquake damage?

Two sources for photographs that show earthquake damage are: Earthquake Hazards Program - Earthquake Photo Collections U.S. Geological Survey Photographic Library (see 'earthquakes' in the categories left column)

Learn More

What is liquefaction? What is liquefaction?

Liquefaction takes place when loosely packed, water-logged sediments at or near the ground surface lose their strength in response to strong ground shaking. Liquefaction occurring beneath buildings and other structures can cause major damage during earthquakes. For example, the 1964 Niigata earthquake caused widespread liquefaction in Niigata, Japan which destroyed many buildings. Also, during the...

What is liquefaction?

What is liquefaction?

Liquefaction takes place when loosely packed, water-logged sediments at or near the ground surface lose their strength in response to strong ground shaking. Liquefaction occurring beneath buildings and other structures can cause major damage during earthquakes. For example, the 1964 Niigata earthquake caused widespread liquefaction in Niigata, Japan which destroyed many buildings. Also, during the...

Learn More

Can you feel an earthquake if you're in a cave? Is it safer to be in a cave during an earthquake? Can you feel an earthquake if you're in a cave? Is it safer to be in a cave during an earthquake?

There is nothing different about a cave that would make it immune to the shaking from an earthquake. Just as there are safer and less safe places to be on the surface of the earth during an earthquake, there are also various characteristics inside caves that make some cave locations safer or less safe than others. First of all, whether or not you feel an earthquake in a cave depends chiefly upon...

Can you feel an earthquake if you're in a cave? Is it safer to be in a cave during an earthquake?

Can you feel an earthquake if you're in a cave? Is it safer to be in a cave during an earthquake?

There is nothing different about a cave that would make it immune to the shaking from an earthquake. Just as there are safer and less safe places to be on the surface of the earth during an earthquake, there are also various characteristics inside caves that make some cave locations safer or less safe than others. First of all, whether or not you feel an earthquake in a cave depends chiefly upon...

Learn More

What are earthquake lights? What are earthquake lights?

Phenomena such as sheet lightning, balls of light, streamers, and steady glows, reported in association with earthquakes are called earthquake lights (EQL). Geophysicists differ on the extent to which they think that individual reports of unusual lighting near the time and epicenter of an earthquake actually represent EQL: some doubt that any of the reports constitute solid evidence for EQL...

What are earthquake lights?

What are earthquake lights?

Phenomena such as sheet lightning, balls of light, streamers, and steady glows, reported in association with earthquakes are called earthquake lights (EQL). Geophysicists differ on the extent to which they think that individual reports of unusual lighting near the time and epicenter of an earthquake actually represent EQL: some doubt that any of the reports constitute solid evidence for EQL...

Learn More

How does the USGS tell the difference between an earthquake and a sonic boom? How does the USGS tell the difference between an earthquake and a sonic boom?

Steps to identification of a sonic boom: The USGS sees either nothing on our seismic records or a fairly short high-frequency signal that doesn't look like an earthquake. On rare occasions, we see the event on multiple stations, and the time difference between stations matches the speed of sound in air, which is slower than the speed of seismic waves in rock. Felt reports come from a wide area...

How does the USGS tell the difference between an earthquake and a sonic boom?

How does the USGS tell the difference between an earthquake and a sonic boom?

Steps to identification of a sonic boom: The USGS sees either nothing on our seismic records or a fairly short high-frequency signal that doesn't look like an earthquake. On rare occasions, we see the event on multiple stations, and the time difference between stations matches the speed of sound in air, which is slower than the speed of seismic waves in rock. Felt reports come from a wide area...

Learn More Label List Grid PubTalk 1/2018 — ShakeAlert: Path to West Coast EQ Early Warning PubTalk 1/2018 — ShakeAlert: Path to West Coast EQ Early Warning January 25, 2018

PubTalk 1/2018 — ShakeAlert: Path to West Coast EQ Early Warning

PubTalk 1/2018 — ShakeAlert: Path to West Coast EQ Early Warning PubTalk 1/2018 — ShakeAlert: Path to West Coast EQ Early Warning

Title: ShakeAlert: The Path to West Coast Earthquake Early Warning ... how a few seconds can save lives and property

By Natural Hazards Mission Area, Earthquake Hazards Program, Communications and Publishing, Public Lecture Series January 25, 2018

PubTalk 1/2018 — ShakeAlert: Path to West Coast EQ Early Warning

PubTalk 1/2018 — ShakeAlert: Path to West Coast EQ Early Warning

PubTalk 1/2018 — ShakeAlert: Path to West Coast EQ Early Warning

PubTalk 1/2018 — ShakeAlert: Path to West Coast EQ Early Warning

Title: ShakeAlert: The Path to West Coast Earthquake Early Warning ... how a few seconds can save lives and property

By Natural Hazards Mission Area, Earthquake Hazards Program, Communications and Publishing, Public Lecture Series Shaking of Frontier Building — Anchorage, Alaska, During Mw7.1 Earthquake, January 24, 2016 Shaking of Frontier Building — Anchorage, Alaska, During Mw7.1 Earthquake, January 24, 2016 May 20, 2016

Shaking of Frontier Building — Anchorage, Alaska, During Mw7.1 Earthquake, January 24, 2016

Shaking of Frontier Building — Anchorage, Alaska, During Mw7.1 Earthquake, January 24, 2016 Shaking of Frontier Building — Anchorage, Alaska, During Mw7.1 Earthquake, January 24, 2016

This video presents a visualization of shaking that was recorded in the Frontier Building in Anchorage, Alaska, during the Mw7.1 earthquake, January 24, 2016, Iniskin, Alaska. It exhibits how a tall building behaves and performs during strong earthquake shaking.

By Natural Hazards, Earthquake Hazards, Communications and Publishing May 20, 2016

Shaking of Frontier Building — Anchorage, Alaska, During Mw7.1 Earthquake, January 24, 2016

Shaking of Frontier Building — Anchorage, Alaska, During Mw7.1 Earthquake, January 24, 2016

Shaking of Frontier Building — Anchorage, Alaska, During Mw7.1 Earthquake, January 24, 2016

Shaking of Frontier Building — Anchorage, Alaska, During Mw7.1 Earthquake, January 24, 2016

This video presents a visualization of shaking that was recorded in the Frontier Building in Anchorage, Alaska, during the Mw7.1 earthquake, January 24, 2016, Iniskin, Alaska. It exhibits how a tall building behaves and performs during strong earthquake shaking.

By Natural Hazards, Earthquake Hazards, Communications and Publishing Shaking in the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska Shaking in the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska March 30, 2016

Shaking in the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska

Shaking in the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska Shaking in the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska

This video presents a visualization of how the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska, shook during the M7.1 January 24, 2016, Iniskin, Alaska, earthquake. The building was instrumented by U.S. Geological Survey to obtain data to study its behavior and performance during strong shaking.

By Communications and Publishing March 30, 2016

Shaking in the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska

Shaking in the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska

Shaking in the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska

Shaking in the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska

This video presents a visualization of how the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska, shook during the M7.1 January 24, 2016, Iniskin, Alaska, earthquake. The building was instrumented by U.S. Geological Survey to obtain data to study its behavior and performance during strong shaking.

By Communications and Publishing PubTalk 8/2014 — Ground Shaking in '89 Loma Prieta Quake: 25 yrs later PubTalk 8/2014 — Ground Shaking in '89 Loma Prieta Quake: 25 yrs later September 25, 2014

PubTalk 8/2014 — Ground Shaking in '89 Loma Prieta Quake: 25 yrs later

PubTalk 8/2014 — Ground Shaking in '89 Loma Prieta Quake: 25 yrs later PubTalk 8/2014 — Ground Shaking in '89 Loma Prieta Quake: 25 yrs later

by Brad Aagaard, USGS Research Geophysicist

By Communications and Publishing, Public Lecture Series September 25, 2014

PubTalk 8/2014 — Ground Shaking in '89 Loma Prieta Quake: 25 yrs later

PubTalk 8/2014 — Ground Shaking in '89 Loma Prieta Quake: 25 yrs later

PubTalk 8/2014 — Ground Shaking in '89 Loma Prieta Quake: 25 yrs later

PubTalk 8/2014 — Ground Shaking in '89 Loma Prieta Quake: 25 yrs later

by Brad Aagaard, USGS Research Geophysicist

By Communications and Publishing, Public Lecture Series A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California December 31, 2008

A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California

A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California

A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California.

By Western Geographic Science Center December 31, 2008

A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California

A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California

A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California

A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California

A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California.

By Western Geographic Science Center Items per page 6 12 Label December 31, 2015

Shaking intensity from injection-induced versus tectonic earthquakes in the central-eastern United States Shaking intensity from injection-induced versus tectonic earthquakes in the central-eastern United States

Although instrumental recordings of earthquakes in the central and eastern United States (CEUS) remain sparse, the U. S. Geological Survey's “Did you feel it?” (DYFI) system now provides excellent characterization of shaking intensities caused by induced and tectonic earthquakes. Seventeen CEUS events are considered between 2013 and 2015. It is shown that for 15 events, observed... Authors Susan Hough By Natural Hazards Mission Area, Earthquake Hazards Program, Earthquake Science Center May 22, 2008

The ShakeOut Scenario The ShakeOut Scenario

This is the initial publication of the results of a cooperative project to examine the implications of a major earthquake in southern California. The study comprised eight counties: Imperial, Kern, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Ventura. Its results will be used as the basis of an emergency response and preparedness exercise, the Great Southern California... Authors Lucile Jones, Richard Bernknopf, Dale Cox, James Goltz, Kenneth Hudnut, Dennis Mileti, Suzanne Perry, Daniel Ponti, Keith Porter, Michael Reichle, Hope Seligson, Kimberley Shoaf, Jerry Treiman, Anne Wein By Natural Hazards Mission Area, Earthquake Hazards Program, Science Application for Risk Reduction, Earthquake Science Center, Reducing Risk June 1, 2005

Did you feel it? : citizens contribute to earthquake science Did you feel it? : citizens contribute to earthquake science

Since the early 1990s, the magnitude and location of an earthquake have been available within minutes on the Internet. Now, as a result of work by the U.S. Geological Survey and with the cooperation of various regional seismic networks, people who experience an earthquake can go online and share information about its effects to help create a map of shaking intensities and damage. Such... Authors David Wald, James Dewey January 1, 2003

The dependence of PGA and PGV on distance and magnitude inferred from Northern California ShakeMap data The dependence of PGA and PGV on distance and magnitude inferred from Northern California ShakeMap data

We analyze peak ground velocity (PGV) and peak ground acceleration (PGA) data from 95 moderate (3.5 ??? M 5.5) and 9 large (5.5 ??? M ??? 7.1) earthquakes in northern California. The 95 moderate earthquakes occurred from August 1998 through December 2002, and their peak motions were compiled and mapped by ShakeMap. The nine large earthquakes include the M 6.2 Morgan Hill earthquake in... Authors J. Boatwright, H. Bundock, J. Luetgert, L. Seekins, L. Gee, P. Lombard January 1, 2001

Earthquake shaking — Finding the "hot spots" Earthquake shaking — Finding the "hot spots"

A new Southern California Earthquake Center study has quantified how local geologic conditions affect the shaking experienced in an earthquake. The important geologic factors at a site are softness of the rock or soil near the surface and thickness of the sediments above hard bedrock. Even when these 'site effects' are taken into account, however, each earthquake exhibits unique... Authors Edward H. Field, Lucile Jones, Tom Jordan, Mark Benthien, Lisa Wald Items per page 6 12 Label East vs West Coast Earthquakes April 24, 2018

East vs West Coast Earthquakes

Why was an earthquake in Virginia felt at more than twice the distance than a similar-sized earthquake in California? The answer is one that many...

Read Article Induced Earthquakes Raise Chances of Damaging Shaking in 2016 March 28, 2016

Induced Earthquakes Raise Chances of Damaging Shaking in 2016

For the first time, new USGS maps identify the potential for ground shaking from both human-induced and natural earthquakes in 2016.

Read Article "Living in Earthquake Country: Los Angeles and the Big One" - Dr. Lucy Jones presentation at LA Natural History Museum March 1, 2013

"Living in Earthquake Country: Los Angeles and the Big One" - Dr. Lucy Jones presentation at LA Natural History Museum

"Living in Earthquake Country: Los Angeles and the Big One" - Dr. Lucy Jones presentation at LA Natural History Museum Read Article

Related

FAQ Items per page 6 12 Label

At what magnitude does damage begin to occur in an earthquake? At what magnitude does damage begin to occur in an earthquake?

It isn't that simple. There is not one magnitude above which damage will occur. It depends on other variables, such as the distance from the earthquake, what type of soil you are on, building construction, etc. That being said, damage does not usually occur until the earthquake magnitude reaches somewhere above 4 or 5. Learn more: Glossary of earthquake terms Earthquake Magnitude, Energy Release...

At what magnitude does damage begin to occur in an earthquake?

At what magnitude does damage begin to occur in an earthquake?

It isn't that simple. There is not one magnitude above which damage will occur. It depends on other variables, such as the distance from the earthquake, what type of soil you are on, building construction, etc. That being said, damage does not usually occur until the earthquake magnitude reaches somewhere above 4 or 5. Learn more: Glossary of earthquake terms Earthquake Magnitude, Energy Release...

Learn More

What are those booms I sometimes hear before or during an earthquake? What are those booms I sometimes hear before or during an earthquake?

"Booms" have been reported for a long time, and they tend to occur more in the Northeastern US and along the East Coast. Of course, most "booms" that people hear or experience are actually some type of cultural noise, such as some type of explosion, a large vehicle going by, or sometimes a sonic boom, but there have been many reports of "booms" that cannot be explained by man-made sources. No one...

What are those booms I sometimes hear before or during an earthquake?

What are those booms I sometimes hear before or during an earthquake?

"Booms" have been reported for a long time, and they tend to occur more in the Northeastern US and along the East Coast. Of course, most "booms" that people hear or experience are actually some type of cultural noise, such as some type of explosion, a large vehicle going by, or sometimes a sonic boom, but there have been many reports of "booms" that cannot be explained by man-made sources. No one...

Learn More

Why do earthquakes in other countries seem to cause more damage and casualties than earthquakes in the U.S.? Why do earthquakes in other countries seem to cause more damage and casualties than earthquakes in the U.S.?

There is more damage and more deaths from earthquakes in other parts of the world primarily because of buildings which are poorly designed and constructed for earthquake regions, and population density.

Why do earthquakes in other countries seem to cause more damage and casualties than earthquakes in the U.S.?

Why do earthquakes in other countries seem to cause more damage and casualties than earthquakes in the U.S.?

There is more damage and more deaths from earthquakes in other parts of the world primarily because of buildings which are poorly designed and constructed for earthquake regions, and population density.

Learn More

How does an earthquake affect groundwater levels and water quality in wells? How does an earthquake affect groundwater levels and water quality in wells?

Groundwater levels in wells can oscillate up and down when seismic waves pass. The water level might remain higher or lower for a period of time after the seismic waves end, but sometimes a long-term offset of groundwater levels follows an earthquake. The largest recorded earthquake-induced offset in a well is a one meter rise. Water quality can also be affected by earthquakes, typically in...

How does an earthquake affect groundwater levels and water quality in wells?

How does an earthquake affect groundwater levels and water quality in wells?

Groundwater levels in wells can oscillate up and down when seismic waves pass. The water level might remain higher or lower for a period of time after the seismic waves end, but sometimes a long-term offset of groundwater levels follows an earthquake. The largest recorded earthquake-induced offset in a well is a one meter rise. Water quality can also be affected by earthquakes, typically in...

Learn More

Where can I find photographs of earthquake damage? Where can I find photographs of earthquake damage?

Two sources for photographs that show earthquake damage are: Earthquake Hazards Program - Earthquake Photo Collections U.S. Geological Survey Photographic Library (see 'earthquakes' in the categories left column)

Where can I find photographs of earthquake damage?

Where can I find photographs of earthquake damage?

Two sources for photographs that show earthquake damage are: Earthquake Hazards Program - Earthquake Photo Collections U.S. Geological Survey Photographic Library (see 'earthquakes' in the categories left column)

Learn More

What is liquefaction? What is liquefaction?

Liquefaction takes place when loosely packed, water-logged sediments at or near the ground surface lose their strength in response to strong ground shaking. Liquefaction occurring beneath buildings and other structures can cause major damage during earthquakes. For example, the 1964 Niigata earthquake caused widespread liquefaction in Niigata, Japan which destroyed many buildings. Also, during the...

What is liquefaction?

What is liquefaction?

Liquefaction takes place when loosely packed, water-logged sediments at or near the ground surface lose their strength in response to strong ground shaking. Liquefaction occurring beneath buildings and other structures can cause major damage during earthquakes. For example, the 1964 Niigata earthquake caused widespread liquefaction in Niigata, Japan which destroyed many buildings. Also, during the...

Learn More

Can you feel an earthquake if you're in a cave? Is it safer to be in a cave during an earthquake? Can you feel an earthquake if you're in a cave? Is it safer to be in a cave during an earthquake?

There is nothing different about a cave that would make it immune to the shaking from an earthquake. Just as there are safer and less safe places to be on the surface of the earth during an earthquake, there are also various characteristics inside caves that make some cave locations safer or less safe than others. First of all, whether or not you feel an earthquake in a cave depends chiefly upon...

Can you feel an earthquake if you're in a cave? Is it safer to be in a cave during an earthquake?

Can you feel an earthquake if you're in a cave? Is it safer to be in a cave during an earthquake?

There is nothing different about a cave that would make it immune to the shaking from an earthquake. Just as there are safer and less safe places to be on the surface of the earth during an earthquake, there are also various characteristics inside caves that make some cave locations safer or less safe than others. First of all, whether or not you feel an earthquake in a cave depends chiefly upon...

Learn More

What are earthquake lights? What are earthquake lights?

Phenomena such as sheet lightning, balls of light, streamers, and steady glows, reported in association with earthquakes are called earthquake lights (EQL). Geophysicists differ on the extent to which they think that individual reports of unusual lighting near the time and epicenter of an earthquake actually represent EQL: some doubt that any of the reports constitute solid evidence for EQL...

What are earthquake lights?

What are earthquake lights?

Phenomena such as sheet lightning, balls of light, streamers, and steady glows, reported in association with earthquakes are called earthquake lights (EQL). Geophysicists differ on the extent to which they think that individual reports of unusual lighting near the time and epicenter of an earthquake actually represent EQL: some doubt that any of the reports constitute solid evidence for EQL...

Learn More

How does the USGS tell the difference between an earthquake and a sonic boom? How does the USGS tell the difference between an earthquake and a sonic boom?

Steps to identification of a sonic boom: The USGS sees either nothing on our seismic records or a fairly short high-frequency signal that doesn't look like an earthquake. On rare occasions, we see the event on multiple stations, and the time difference between stations matches the speed of sound in air, which is slower than the speed of seismic waves in rock. Felt reports come from a wide area...

How does the USGS tell the difference between an earthquake and a sonic boom?

How does the USGS tell the difference between an earthquake and a sonic boom?

Steps to identification of a sonic boom: The USGS sees either nothing on our seismic records or a fairly short high-frequency signal that doesn't look like an earthquake. On rare occasions, we see the event on multiple stations, and the time difference between stations matches the speed of sound in air, which is slower than the speed of seismic waves in rock. Felt reports come from a wide area...

Learn More Multimedia Label List Grid PubTalk 1/2018 — ShakeAlert: Path to West Coast EQ Early Warning PubTalk 1/2018 — ShakeAlert: Path to West Coast EQ Early Warning January 25, 2018

PubTalk 1/2018 — ShakeAlert: Path to West Coast EQ Early Warning

PubTalk 1/2018 — ShakeAlert: Path to West Coast EQ Early Warning PubTalk 1/2018 — ShakeAlert: Path to West Coast EQ Early Warning

Title: ShakeAlert: The Path to West Coast Earthquake Early Warning ... how a few seconds can save lives and property

By Natural Hazards Mission Area, Earthquake Hazards Program, Communications and Publishing, Public Lecture Series January 25, 2018

PubTalk 1/2018 — ShakeAlert: Path to West Coast EQ Early Warning

PubTalk 1/2018 — ShakeAlert: Path to West Coast EQ Early Warning

PubTalk 1/2018 — ShakeAlert: Path to West Coast EQ Early Warning

PubTalk 1/2018 — ShakeAlert: Path to West Coast EQ Early Warning

Title: ShakeAlert: The Path to West Coast Earthquake Early Warning ... how a few seconds can save lives and property

By Natural Hazards Mission Area, Earthquake Hazards Program, Communications and Publishing, Public Lecture Series Shaking of Frontier Building — Anchorage, Alaska, During Mw7.1 Earthquake, January 24, 2016 Shaking of Frontier Building — Anchorage, Alaska, During Mw7.1 Earthquake, January 24, 2016 May 20, 2016

Shaking of Frontier Building — Anchorage, Alaska, During Mw7.1 Earthquake, January 24, 2016

Shaking of Frontier Building — Anchorage, Alaska, During Mw7.1 Earthquake, January 24, 2016 Shaking of Frontier Building — Anchorage, Alaska, During Mw7.1 Earthquake, January 24, 2016

This video presents a visualization of shaking that was recorded in the Frontier Building in Anchorage, Alaska, during the Mw7.1 earthquake, January 24, 2016, Iniskin, Alaska. It exhibits how a tall building behaves and performs during strong earthquake shaking.

By Natural Hazards, Earthquake Hazards, Communications and Publishing May 20, 2016

Shaking of Frontier Building — Anchorage, Alaska, During Mw7.1 Earthquake, January 24, 2016

Shaking of Frontier Building — Anchorage, Alaska, During Mw7.1 Earthquake, January 24, 2016

Shaking of Frontier Building — Anchorage, Alaska, During Mw7.1 Earthquake, January 24, 2016

Shaking of Frontier Building — Anchorage, Alaska, During Mw7.1 Earthquake, January 24, 2016

This video presents a visualization of shaking that was recorded in the Frontier Building in Anchorage, Alaska, during the Mw7.1 earthquake, January 24, 2016, Iniskin, Alaska. It exhibits how a tall building behaves and performs during strong earthquake shaking.

By Natural Hazards, Earthquake Hazards, Communications and Publishing Shaking in the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska Shaking in the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska March 30, 2016

Shaking in the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska

Shaking in the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska Shaking in the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska

This video presents a visualization of how the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska, shook during the M7.1 January 24, 2016, Iniskin, Alaska, earthquake. The building was instrumented by U.S. Geological Survey to obtain data to study its behavior and performance during strong shaking.

By Communications and Publishing March 30, 2016

Shaking in the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska

Shaking in the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska

Shaking in the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska

Shaking in the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska

This video presents a visualization of how the Atwood Building in Anchorage, Alaska, shook during the M7.1 January 24, 2016, Iniskin, Alaska, earthquake. The building was instrumented by U.S. Geological Survey to obtain data to study its behavior and performance during strong shaking.

By Communications and Publishing PubTalk 8/2014 — Ground Shaking in '89 Loma Prieta Quake: 25 yrs later PubTalk 8/2014 — Ground Shaking in '89 Loma Prieta Quake: 25 yrs later September 25, 2014

PubTalk 8/2014 — Ground Shaking in '89 Loma Prieta Quake: 25 yrs later

PubTalk 8/2014 — Ground Shaking in '89 Loma Prieta Quake: 25 yrs later PubTalk 8/2014 — Ground Shaking in '89 Loma Prieta Quake: 25 yrs later

by Brad Aagaard, USGS Research Geophysicist

By Communications and Publishing, Public Lecture Series September 25, 2014

PubTalk 8/2014 — Ground Shaking in '89 Loma Prieta Quake: 25 yrs later

PubTalk 8/2014 — Ground Shaking in '89 Loma Prieta Quake: 25 yrs later

PubTalk 8/2014 — Ground Shaking in '89 Loma Prieta Quake: 25 yrs later

PubTalk 8/2014 — Ground Shaking in '89 Loma Prieta Quake: 25 yrs later

by Brad Aagaard, USGS Research Geophysicist

By Communications and Publishing, Public Lecture Series A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California December 31, 2008

A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California

A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California

A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California.

By Western Geographic Science Center December 31, 2008

A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California

A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California

A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California

A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California

A map of ShakeOut scenario shaking in southern California.

By Western Geographic Science Center Publications Items per page 6 12 Label December 31, 2015

Shaking intensity from injection-induced versus tectonic earthquakes in the central-eastern United States Shaking intensity from injection-induced versus tectonic earthquakes in the central-eastern United States

Although instrumental recordings of earthquakes in the central and eastern United States (CEUS) remain sparse, the U. S. Geological Survey's “Did you feel it?” (DYFI) system now provides excellent characterization of shaking intensities caused by induced and tectonic earthquakes. Seventeen CEUS events are considered between 2013 and 2015. It is shown that for 15 events, observed... Authors Susan Hough By Natural Hazards Mission Area, Earthquake Hazards Program, Earthquake Science Center May 22, 2008

The ShakeOut Scenario The ShakeOut Scenario

This is the initial publication of the results of a cooperative project to examine the implications of a major earthquake in southern California. The study comprised eight counties: Imperial, Kern, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Ventura. Its results will be used as the basis of an emergency response and preparedness exercise, the Great Southern California... Authors Lucile Jones, Richard Bernknopf, Dale Cox, James Goltz, Kenneth Hudnut, Dennis Mileti, Suzanne Perry, Daniel Ponti, Keith Porter, Michael Reichle, Hope Seligson, Kimberley Shoaf, Jerry Treiman, Anne Wein By Natural Hazards Mission Area, Earthquake Hazards Program, Science Application for Risk Reduction, Earthquake Science Center, Reducing Risk June 1, 2005

Did you feel it? : citizens contribute to earthquake science Did you feel it? : citizens contribute to earthquake science

Since the early 1990s, the magnitude and location of an earthquake have been available within minutes on the Internet. Now, as a result of work by the U.S. Geological Survey and with the cooperation of various regional seismic networks, people who experience an earthquake can go online and share information about its effects to help create a map of shaking intensities and damage. Such... Authors David Wald, James Dewey January 1, 2003

The dependence of PGA and PGV on distance and magnitude inferred from Northern California ShakeMap data The dependence of PGA and PGV on distance and magnitude inferred from Northern California ShakeMap data

We analyze peak ground velocity (PGV) and peak ground acceleration (PGA) data from 95 moderate (3.5 ??? M 5.5) and 9 large (5.5 ??? M ??? 7.1) earthquakes in northern California. The 95 moderate earthquakes occurred from August 1998 through December 2002, and their peak motions were compiled and mapped by ShakeMap. The nine large earthquakes include the M 6.2 Morgan Hill earthquake in... Authors J. Boatwright, H. Bundock, J. Luetgert, L. Seekins, L. Gee, P. Lombard January 1, 2001

Earthquake shaking — Finding the "hot spots" Earthquake shaking — Finding the "hot spots"

A new Southern California Earthquake Center study has quantified how local geologic conditions affect the shaking experienced in an earthquake. The important geologic factors at a site are softness of the rock or soil near the surface and thickness of the sediments above hard bedrock. Even when these 'site effects' are taken into account, however, each earthquake exhibits unique... Authors Edward H. Field, Lucile Jones, Tom Jordan, Mark Benthien, Lisa Wald News Items per page 6 12 Label East vs West Coast Earthquakes April 24, 2018

East vs West Coast Earthquakes

Why was an earthquake in Virginia felt at more than twice the distance than a similar-sized earthquake in California? The answer is one that many...

Read Article Induced Earthquakes Raise Chances of Damaging Shaking in 2016 March 28, 2016

Induced Earthquakes Raise Chances of Damaging Shaking in 2016

For the first time, new USGS maps identify the potential for ground shaking from both human-induced and natural earthquakes in 2016.

Read Article "Living in Earthquake Country: Los Angeles and the Big One" - Dr. Lucy Jones presentation at LA Natural History Museum March 1, 2013

"Living in Earthquake Country: Los Angeles and the Big One" - Dr. Lucy Jones presentation at LA Natural History Museum

"Living in Earthquake Country: Los Angeles and the Big One" - Dr. Lucy Jones presentation at LA Natural History Museum Read Article

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