Answer: Earthquake hazards include ground shaking, surface rupture, landslides, tsunamis, and secondary hazards. These hazards can lead to a wide range of impacts, including structural damage, loss of life, disruptions to transportation and utilities, and changes to the natural environment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Earthquakes can give rise to various hazards that can have significant effects and impacts. Some of the primary earthquake hazards and their associated effects or impacts include:
1) Ground Shaking: During an earthquake, the ground shakes vigorously, leading to several consequences:
- Structural damage to buildings and infrastructure, which can result in collapse or compromise of their integrity.
- Loss of life and injuries, as people may be trapped or struck by falling objects.
- Disruption of transportation systems, such as roads, bridges, and railways, making it difficult for emergency services to reach affected areas.
- Damage to underground utilities, such as water and gas pipelines, leading to leaks or supply interruptions.
2) Surface Rupture: In some cases, earthquakes can cause the ground to rupture along the fault line, resulting in:
- Displacement of the ground surface, which can damage structures and infrastructure built on top of it.
- Formation of visible cracks or fissures in the ground, making areas unsafe for habitation or travel.
- Alteration of drainage patterns, causing flooding or changes in the flow of water bodies.
3) Landslides: Earthquakes can trigger landslides in hilly or mountainous regions, leading to:
- Loss of life and property damage, as the sliding mass can bury or destroy buildings and infrastructure.
- Blockage of roads and highways, hindering transportation and access to affected areas.
- Changes in the landscape and ecosystem, including alterations to rivers, lakes, or forests.
4) Tsunamis: Underwater earthquakes or those occurring near the coast can generate tsunamis, resulting in:
- Inundation of coastal areas, leading to significant destruction and loss of life.
- Flooding of low-lying regions and damage to infrastructure near the shoreline.
- Disruption of marine ecosystems and coastal habitats.
5) Secondary Hazards: Earthquakes can trigger secondary hazards that exacerbate the impacts, such as:
- Fires due to ruptured gas lines or electrical sparks, which can cause additional damage and loss of life.
- Aftershocks, which are smaller earthquakes that occur after the main event, prolonging the period of instability and increasing the chances of further damage.
It is important to note that the severity and extent of these hazards and their impacts can vary depending on factors such as the magnitude of the earthquake, proximity to populated areas, building codes and infrastructure resilience, and preparedness measures in place.