It’s no secret that some countries are more prone to earthquakes than others. But which regions exactly are these? In this article, we will list the countries of the world that are most prone to earthquakes, and also tell you what to do if you find yourself in the place of a destructive natural phenomenon.
Where and why do earthquakes occur
An earthquake can occur as a result of many factors, among them: plate tectonics, magma movement in volcanoes, changes in temperature or water pressure, as well as strong winds.
No corner of the planet is immune from earthquakes, but they most often occur in these three zones of the earth:
- The Pacific seismic belt, it is also called the “Ring of Fire”. It is located along the edge of the Pacific Ocean, where about 81% of the largest earthquakes in the world occur. Earthquakes in these places are caused by sliding between tectonic plates and rupture within them.
- The Alpine seismicity belt. Extending from From Java to Sumatra, it passes through the Himalayas, the Mediterranean and the Atlantic.
- The Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The ridge marks where two tectonic plates diverge. Most of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge is deep underwater. However, there is, for example, Iceland, which is located directly above the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, and earthquakes are not uncommon there.
Map of the Pacific Ring of Fire
11 countries where earthquakes occur most frequently
Japan
Japan, located in The Pacific Ring of Fire occupies the first place in the list of the most seismically active countries in the world — on average, more than 1,500 earthquakes of magnitude 4 and higher occur annually in the country. Therefore, the Japanese seismic network is the densest in the world.
The Great East Japan Earthquake, also known as the Tohoku Earthquake, occurred on March 11, 2011 with a magnitude of 9.0. It caused a devastating tsunami that caused massive destruction and led to the Fukushima nuclear disaster.
Due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, Japan also experiences frequent volcanic eruptions.
Indonesia
Earthquakes of more than 6.0 magnitude occur in Indonesia almost every year.
The Great Sumatra-Andaman earthquake, which occurred on December 26, 2004 off the coast of Sumatra, caused one of the deadliest tsunamis in history. The massive destruction in the Indian Ocean killed about 230,000 people in several countries, but Indonesia suffered the most.
In 2018, there were 9 earthquakes in the country with a force of more than six points, which claimed the lives of thousands of people.
Indonesia uses an earthquake early warning system called “InaTEWS”. This system uses a network of seismometers and buoys to detect earthquakes and monitor tsunamis.
China
China is one of those countries where earthquakes are the most destructive. One example is the magnitude 7.9 earthquake that occurred in Sichuan Province in 2008. As a result of this tragedy, more than 87,000 people died or went missing.
Strict seismic design building standards have been introduced in China to improve the seismic resistance of structures. A famous example is the Bird’s Nest Stadium in Beijing, designed to withstand strong earthquakes.
Philippines
The Philippines is one of the most earthquake-prone countries in the world. Due to the mountainous terrain, earthquakes can also cause deadly landslides. Because of these frequent natural disasters, many people living in this country are building sturdy structures.
Iran
Iran is located along several boundaries of tectonic plates and fault lines. One of the strongest earthquakes in Iran occurred in Gilan province. That 1990 earthquake claimed more than 40,000 lives.
Turkey
Turkey often suffers from seismic activity due to its location near several large fault lines. The country is sandwiched between the Eurasian plate, the African and Arabian plates, which causes constant tremors to a certain extent.
Peru
Peru is located in the center of the Ring of Fire and regularly experiences small tremors, as well as medium and strong earthquakes. To prevent the loss of life from such natural disasters, nationwide earthquake response exercises are being conducted in the country.
USA
Despite the fact that the United States is not located in a seismically active region, it has a unique geological landscape that makes it susceptible to earthquakes. The high population also contributes to the high risk of earthquakes in the United States. As a result, even relatively small earthquakes can cause significant damage due to the large number of people affected.
Italy
Italy is prone to seismic activity due to its location on several fault lines. The landscape, consisting of steep mountain ranges, inactive volcanoes and coastal plains, also plays a role. One of the most devastating earthquakes in Italy occurred in Messina in 1908, when more than 75,000 people died.
Mexico
Like many countries along the Pacific Ring of Fire, Mexico is vulnerable to regular seismic activity. Mexico City is particularly vulnerable to earthquakes due to its geology, as the city is built at the bottom of an ancient lake. In this regard, the country has strict building regulations and procedures in case of emergencies.
The strongest earthquake (with a magnitude of 8.1) ever recorded in Mexico occurred on September 19, 1985. This caused massive destruction in the country and led to the deaths of thousands of people.
New Zealand
Seismic activity is a common occurrence for New Zealand, as it is located on the border of the Pacific and Australian tectonic plates. There are several earthquakes in the country every year, but most of them go unnoticed because they are insignificant. However, there are cases when significant earthquakes occur in New Zealand, which cause damage and affect the lives of the population. Earthquake in Christchurch, which occurred on February 22, 2011, was one of the most devastating earthquakes in recent history. The 6.3 magnitude earthquake caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure, as well as significant loss of life.
New Zealand has a well-developed earthquake monitoring and seismic event response system. The GeoNet project, managed by the government agency GNS Science, tracks seismic activity across the country and provides real-time earthquake information.
Map of earthquake-prone areas of the world
You can study the earthquake risk map in more detail here.
Where there can be no earthquakes
Of all the continents, Antarctica has the fewest earthquakes. However, it must be remembered that small earthquakes can occur anywhere in the world.
How to prepare a house for a possible earthquake
Here are some useful tips:
- Secure cabinets, shelving, and bookshelves to the walls. This will prevent them from tipping over during tremors.
- Remove heavy objects from high shelves and mezzanines. Falling, they can cause serious injuries.
- Attach household appliances and mirrors to walls or furniture. This will prevent them from falling during an earthquake. Strong straps/ropes or special fasteners that are sold in hardware stores can be used for fastening.
- Install limiters on the cabinet doors so that the contents do not fall out when pushed.
- Stick a shockproof film on the windows or install blinds/shutters. This will not allow the glass to crumble.
- Check out the ways to turn off gas, electricity and water in case of leaks after an earthquake. Determine the places where communications are entered into the house.
- Create an emergency supply of water (at least 3 liters per person per day) and long-lasting food (canned food, dry cereals, pasta, dried fruits, nuts, biscuits, dry biscuits).
- Prepare an emergency kit: flashlights, a battery-powered radio, tools, a first-aid kit, warm clothes.
- Choose a safe place in the house — under a sturdy table or against an inner wall for shelter during tremors.
The earthquake is already happening. What to do?
It sounds strange, but the most important thing at this moment is not to panic. With a cold mind, it will be much easier to understand the situation and take the necessary steps.
When at home, you need to stay away from windows and all kinds of unstable structures. Until the tremors subside, you must stay in a safe space. To do this, you need to create this space: squat under a stable table, or surround yourself with stable pieces of furniture. Wrap your head in your hands and cover it with a pillow, a book, or something similar.
During tremors, you can notrun up to the stairs, go out on the balcony, use the elevator, try to get out through the windows or balcony, use matches, touch the buttons of electrical appliances connected to the network.
After the tremors: turn off the electricity in the house, turn off the water, gas, turn off the stove and heaters. Collect the necessary documents and the “alarm suitcase” and head to the collection point in case of an emergency (usually indicated in front of the entrance to the entrance).
Once outside, avoid any buildings, trees, and power lines; find a safe open place and squat down.
While in the car, pull over to the side of the road away from poles and other structures, turn off the engine and turn on the emergency light. Stay in the car until the tremors stop.
What you need to have in the “alarm case” if you find yourself at the site of an earthquake:
- supply of drinking water and food for 4 days;
- lantern;
- The whistle;
- a respirator or mask;
- construction glasses and gloves;
- hygiene products;
- first aid kit;
- documents in an airtight bag;
- knife 3/5 in one;
- for children — a mixture with food, diapers, a pacifier, for animals — dry food.
There is also an app that notifies you of strong tremors in your area.
What to do after an earthquake
After the tremors have stopped, it is important to observe the following precautions:
- Do not rush to leave the shelter immediately after the end of the tremors, as repeated aftershocks are possible, which can be strong. Come out only after you are sure that the danger has passed.
- Inspect the room for damage and possible blockages. Be careful, beware of broken wires and damaged load-bearing structures.
- If possible, turn off the gas, electricity and water supply to avoid leaks and short circuits that can lead to fires.
- Use stairs, not elevators. In case of repeated shocks, the elevators may get stuck between floors.
- After leaving the building, move to an open space away from buildings, power lines and other objects that may fall.
- Do not attempt to drive into earthquake-affected areas. The streets should be free for emergency services to pass through.
- Do not use the phone except to call emergency services. This will avoid overloading the telephone lines.
- Provide first aid to the injured if necessary, but be careful and do not put yourself in danger.
- Check the stocks of food, water, medicines and other basic necessities. Restock if required.
The main thing after an earthquake is to remain calm and follow the instructions of the authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
In which countries do earthquakes occur most often?
The most seismically active countries are Japan, Indonesia, China, the Philippines, Iran, Turkey, Peru, the USA, Italy, Mexico and New Zealand. They are located along the boundaries of tectonic plates or have landscape features that make them vulnerable to earthquakes.
How to prepare for an earthquake and what to do during it?
Prepare an “alarm case” with everything you need. During an earthquake, stay away from windows, and away from buildings and power lines on the street. Squat down, cover your head. Do not panic and follow the instructions of the rescuers.
How do I find out about a possible earthquake in advance?
There are applications that monitor seismic activity and warn of possible earthquakes. For example, an application that notifies about strong tremors in your region.
In which regions of the planet are there no earthquakes at all?
The least seismic activity is in Antarctica. However, no region of the planet is complete without earthquakes.
How do you know that an earthquake is starting?
The signs are trembling and oscillation of surrounding objects, loud underground beats or a rumble. It is important to react quickly.
What should I do if I get stuck in the elevator during the tremors?
Press the call button, calm down and wait for help. Avoid sudden movements so that the cabin does not sway.
Is it safe to return to the affected buildings after the earthquake?
No, we need to wait for the permission of the rescuers and assess the stability of the structures. Buildings can be dangerous to stay inside.
Author
Yulia Yanukovych Editor-in-Chief
I am responsible for the work of the editorial office. I write expert interviews and guides.
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