Emergency Preparedness Program

Earthquake

 

An earthquake is a shaking or trembling of the earth's crust caused by the breaking and shifting of rock beneath the surface. Earthquakes range in intensity from slight tremors to great shocks. They may last from a few seconds to several minutes, or come as a series of tremors over a period of several days. Earthquakes usually occur without warning. In some instances, advance warnings of unusual geophysical events may be issued.

What problems may an earthquake cause?

Ground vibrations during an earthquake are seldom the direct cause of death or injury. Most injuries result from collapsing walls, flying glass, falling objects and debris. Disruption of communications systems, electric power lines, and gas, sewer and water mains can be expected. Water supplies can become contaminated by seepage around water mains. Damage to roadways and other transportation systems may create food and other resources shortages if transportation is interrupted. In addition, earthquakes may trigger other emergency situations such as fires and hazardous material spills, thereby compounding the situation.


Where do earthquakes usually occur?

Earthquakes tend to strike repeatedly along fault lines. The closest fault zone to Michigan is the New Madrid Seismic Zone. This zone extends from approximately Cairo, Illinois through New Madrid, Missouri to Marked Tree, Arkansas. Some regions near upstate New York are also seismic zones.


What is the risk of earthquakes in Macomb County?

Macomb County lies outside the range of any major event located in these two closest areas and, most likely, only small tremors would be felt in Macomb County. The largest impact to the County would result from damage to natural gas and petroleum pipelines.

How can you protect yourself from an earthquake?

• Pick safe places in each room.
• Practice drop, cover, and hold on at least twice a year. - Drop to the floor, take cover under a study piece of furniture, and hold on to a leg of the furniture.  If suitable furniture is not nearby, sit on the floor next to an interior wall and cover your head and neck with your arms.

Learn More:

• Earthquakes (Ready America)
• Earthquake (FEMA)
• Earthquakes (CDC)
• Earthquake (American Red Cross)

Other Disasters
	General Information
	Blackout
	Drought
	Fire
	Flood
	Extreme Heat
	Landslide
	Thunderstorm
	Tornado
	Winter Weather

 

Source: Talking About Disaster: Guide for Standard Messages. Washington, D.C., 2007.

Information is not intended to be a substitute for appropriate medical advice.  Links to external sites do not constitute endorsements by Macomb County.

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