Earthquakes differ from other natural disasters in one critical way: they provide no warning. While hurricanes develop over days and floods build over hours, earthquakes begin suddenly and violently. The shaking that can collapse buildings and rupture infrastructure typically lasts only seconds to a minute, but those seconds determine survival. Preparation and immediate correct response are everything.

Seismic risk extends far beyond the well-known fault zones. While California, Japan, and other regions experience frequent earthquakes, damaging events can occur almost anywhere. The central United States experienced some of the strongest earthquakes in American history in 1811 to 1812. European countries from Italy to Iceland face significant seismic risk. Understanding your local risk and preparing appropriately protects you regardless of where you live.

This guide covers the complete earthquake cycle: preparation before earthquakes occur, the critical protective actions during shaking, the hazardous period immediately after, and recovery from earthquake damage. Whether you experience minor tremors or face a major seismic event, these principles help you respond effectively.

What Changes During Earthquakes

Earthquakes transform the built environment in seconds, creating hazards that persist long after shaking stops. Understanding these changes helps you prepare appropriately and respond safely.

Structural damage ranges from cosmetic cracking to complete collapse depending on earthquake magnitude, building construction, and soil conditions. Even buildings that remain standing may have compromised structural integrity. Post-earthquake inspection is essential before assuming a building is safe.

Utilities become hazardous. Gas lines rupture, creating fire and explosion risk. Water mains break, affecting both supply and creating flooding. Electrical systems are damaged, causing fires and shock hazards. Sewage systems fail, creating contamination. Shutting off utilities may be necessary.

Transportation is disrupted. Roads crack and buckle. Bridges may be damaged or closed for inspection. Debris blocks routes. Traffic signals fail. Travel immediately after a significant earthquake is difficult and may be impossible in heavily affected areas.

Communication systems are overwhelmed. Cell networks become congested as everyone tries to call simultaneously. Landlines may be damaged. Internet may be unavailable. Text messages often get through when voice calls fail.

Aftershocks follow major earthquakes, sometimes for weeks or months. These subsequent earthquakes can be damaging in their own right and may collapse structures weakened by the initial event. The aftershock sequence is most intense immediately after the main shock and diminishes over time, but significant aftershocks can occur days or weeks later.

Secondary hazards may exceed the initial earthquake damage. Fires from ruptured gas lines and damaged electrical systems spread when water systems are broken. Landslides occur on unstable slopes. Tsunamis follow submarine earthquakes. Liquefaction turns solid ground into quicksand-like material in areas with saturated sandy soil.

Preparation Before Earthquakes

Since earthquakes provide no warning, preparation must be complete before any event occurs. The work you do now determines your safety when shaking begins.

Secure heavy items that could fall during shaking. Bookcases, tall furniture, and heavy appliances should be anchored to walls. Water heaters require strapping to prevent toppling and gas line rupture. Heavy items should not be stored on high shelves where they could fall on occupied areas.

Know how to shut off utilities. Locate your gas meter shutoff valve and keep an appropriate wrench nearby. Know where your electrical panel is and how to shut off the main breaker. Know your water shutoff location. Practice operating these shutoffs so you can do it quickly after an earthquake.

Identify safe spots in each room. Under sturdy desks or tables. Against interior walls away from windows, heavy furniture, and objects that could fall. Not in doorways, which offer no special protection and may have doors swinging dangerously. Practice getting to these positions quickly.

Prepare emergency supplies. Water, food, first aid, flashlights, and battery radio should be immediately accessible. Keep shoes and a flashlight near your bed for navigating debris in the dark. Have supplies both at home and in your vehicle.

Know your building. Understand its construction type and likely earthquake performance. Identify the safest areas and the most dangerous ones. Know evacuation routes. If you are in a high-rise, understand that upper floors experience more motion but modern buildings are designed to withstand earthquakes.

Review your insurance. Standard homeowners policies typically do not cover earthquake damage. Earthquake insurance is a separate policy. Understand your coverage and deductibles. Document your property with photos and inventory for potential claims.

During the Earthquake

When shaking begins, you have seconds to take protective action. The correct response depends on where you are. Practice these responses so they become automatic.

If indoors: Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Drop to your hands and knees. Take cover under a sturdy desk or table if one is nearby. If not, move against an interior wall and cover your head and neck with your arms. Hold on to your shelter and be prepared to move with it. Stay where you are until shaking stops.

Do not run outside during shaking. Falling debris from buildings is extremely dangerous. Most earthquake injuries occur when people try to move during shaking and are struck by falling objects or fall themselves. The safest place is under sturdy furniture or against an interior wall.

Do not stand in doorways. This outdated advice from when doorframes were stronger than surrounding walls no longer applies to modern construction. Doorways offer no special protection and put you at risk from swinging doors.

If in bed, stay there. Cover your head with a pillow. Injuries occur when people try to get out of bed and step on broken glass or are struck by falling objects. Unless you are directly under a heavy fixture that might fall, stay in bed until shaking stops.

If outdoors, move away from buildings, power lines, and trees. Drop to your knees and cover your head. The danger zone near buildings extends roughly the height of the building. Open areas away from structures are safest.

If driving, pull over to a clear area away from buildings, overpasses, and power lines. Stop the car and set the parking brake. Stay inside the vehicle, which provides protection from falling objects. When shaking stops, proceed carefully, watching for road damage, debris, and damaged infrastructure.

If near the coast and shaking is strong or prolonged, move to high ground immediately after shaking stops. Tsunamis can arrive within minutes of submarine earthquakes. Do not wait for official warnings. Strong shaking near the coast is your warning.

Immediately After Shaking Stops

The first minutes after an earthquake are critical. Hazards remain high and your actions determine both your safety and ability to help others.

Expect aftershocks. The first aftershock may occur within seconds to minutes. Drop, cover, and hold on each time you feel shaking. Aftershocks can be nearly as strong as the main shock and may collapse structures weakened by the initial event.

Check yourself for injuries before trying to help others. You cannot help effectively if you are injured. Address any bleeding or obvious injuries. Move carefully to avoid additional injury from debris.

Check for hazards in your immediate area. Smell for gas. If you smell gas or hear hissing, open windows, leave the building, and call your gas utility from outside. Do not flip electrical switches or use phones inside the building. Sparks can ignite gas.

If you are in a damaged building, exit carefully once shaking stops. Watch for fallen debris, broken glass, and unstable structures. Use stairs, never elevators. Once outside, move away from buildings in case of aftershock-induced collapse.

If trapped under debris, do not light matches (gas may be present). Cover your mouth to avoid inhaling dust. Tap on pipes or walls to signal rescuers rather than shouting, which consumes energy and risks inhaling dust. Use a whistle if you have one.

Check your home for damage if it is safe to remain. Look for cracks in walls, shifted foundations, broken chimneys. Check utilities for damage. If you have any doubt about structural safety, do not enter or remain in the building.

Shut off utilities if damage is found or suspected. Turn off the main gas valve if you smell gas or suspect line damage. Turn off electricity at the main breaker if you see sparking, frayed wires, or if the building has significant structural damage. Turn off water at the main if pipes are broken.

72-Hour Stabilization

The first three days after a significant earthquake involve managing without normal services while emergency response unfolds. Self-sufficiency during this period is essential.

Water and food from your emergency supplies sustain you while infrastructure is assessed and restored. Municipal water may be contaminated or unavailable. Stores may be closed or inaccessible. Your stored supplies provide critical buffer.

Communication requires patience and strategy. Cell networks will be overwhelmed. Text messages get through more reliably than voice calls. Designate an out-of-area contact for family members to report status to, reducing local call attempts. Battery-powered radio provides news and official instructions.

Stay informed through official channels. Emergency broadcasts provide information about affected areas, available services, and safety instructions. Follow guidance from local emergency management. Social media can provide information but also spreads rumors.

Check on neighbors, especially elderly, disabled, or those likely to need assistance. Share information and resources. Community mutual support accelerates recovery for everyone.

Document damage for insurance purposes. Photograph and video all damage before beginning cleanup or repairs. Make lists of damaged items. This documentation is essential for claims.

Do not enter damaged buildings until they are inspected. Even if a building appears intact, structural damage may not be visible. Professional inspection determines whether buildings are safe to occupy. Heed posted safety notices.

Phase 1: Days 4 through 7

After immediate response, focus shifts to assessing damage, beginning recovery, and adapting to extended service disruption. This phase varies greatly depending on earthquake severity and your location.

Building inspection determines occupancy status. Engineers assess structural safety and tag buildings. Green tags indicate safe occupancy. Yellow tags indicate limited entry. Red tags mean the building is unsafe to enter. Heed these official assessments.

Utility restoration proceeds based on damage assessment. Gas and electric utilities must be inspected before restoration to prevent fires. Water system integrity must be confirmed. This process takes time, especially in heavily damaged areas.

Insurance claims begin with documentation and notification. Contact your insurer to report damage. Provide photos and documentation. Understand your coverage, including deductibles, which are often percentage-based for earthquake policies.

Temporary repairs prevent further damage. Cover broken windows and damaged roofs. These temporary measures protect your property until permanent repairs are possible. Document conditions before temporary repairs and save receipts.

Access available assistance. FEMA and other agencies provide disaster assistance for declared disasters. Local organizations help with immediate needs. Red Cross operates shelters when needed. Register for assistance programs you may qualify for.

Continue monitoring aftershocks. The aftershock sequence remains active for days and can include damaging events. Each aftershock may cause additional damage, particularly to already-weakened structures. Maintain caution when entering buildings.

Phase 2: Weeks 2 through 4

Extended earthquake recovery involves permanent repairs, insurance resolution, and addressing the practical and emotional challenges of the event. Aftershocks continue but typically diminish.

Permanent repairs proceed once buildings are cleared and insurance assessments complete. Structural repairs require permits and professional work. Prioritize structural safety before cosmetic repairs. This work may take months.

Contractor selection requires care. After major earthquakes, demand exceeds supply. Get multiple estimates. Verify licensing and insurance. Get written contracts. Be wary of door-to-door solicitations from unknown contractors.

Insurance processes take time and may involve disputes about damage extent or coverage. Document everything. Keep records of all communications. Consider professional assistance for complex claims.

Mental health needs attention. Earthquakes are traumatic, particularly the ongoing uncertainty from aftershocks. Children may show anxiety. Adults experience stress, disrupted sleep, and heightened startle responses. These reactions are normal but need acknowledgment and support.

Community recovery varies across affected areas. Some neighborhoods recover quickly while others face extended disruption. Participate in community recovery efforts. Support neighbors facing challenges. Community connection strengthens resilience.

Phase 3: Month 2 and Beyond

Major earthquake recovery extends for months to years. Complete rebuilding, insurance resolution, and community restoration take time.

Reconstruction continues based on damage extent. Major structural repairs take months. Complete rebuilds take longer. Contractor and material availability affect timelines.

Consider improvements during rebuilding. Seismic retrofitting, soft-story strengthening, and foundation improvements reduce future vulnerability. Building codes may require upgrades when significant repairs are made.

Aftershock activity diminishes but significant events remain possible for months. Buildings that survived the main shock and aftershock sequence are generally sound, but remain alert to new damage.

Update your earthquake preparedness based on experience. What worked? What was missing? What would you do differently? Use this knowledge to improve future readiness.

Long-term seismic risk assessment may be warranted. If your building performed poorly, consider whether retrofitting or relocation makes sense. Understand your ongoing risk and make informed decisions about mitigation.

Apartment vs. House Considerations

Earthquake safety and response differ somewhat between apartment and house residents due to building types and responsibilities.

Apartment residents should understand their building's construction type. Soft-story buildings with parking on the ground floor are particularly vulnerable. Unreinforced masonry buildings pose significant risk. Modern code-compliant buildings generally perform well. Understand your building's characteristics.

Evacuation from apartments after earthquakes may be necessary if the building is damaged. Know your evacuation routes. Know the location of emergency stairs. Do not use elevators after earthquakes. Have a plan for where you would go if your building is uninhabitable.

House residents have more control over preparation and retrofitting. Foundation bolting, cripple wall bracing, and water heater strapping can be done by homeowners or contractors. Chimney bracing prevents collapse. These improvements significantly reduce damage.

Single-story wood-frame houses generally perform well in earthquakes. Multi-story or masonry construction may be more vulnerable. Understand your home's construction and specific vulnerabilities.

Regional Considerations

In the United States: USGS monitors earthquakes and operates ShakeAlert, an early warning system for the West Coast that can provide seconds of warning before shaking arrives. FEMA coordinates federal disaster response. Earthquake insurance is separate from homeowners insurance and available through private insurers. Building codes vary by location and age of construction.

In Europe: Seismic risk varies significantly across the continent. Southern Europe (Italy, Greece, Turkey) faces highest risk. National geological services monitor earthquakes. Early warning systems exist in some regions. Building standards vary by country and reflect local risk. Emergency services accessed through 112.

Earthquake Preparedness Checklist

Essential preparations for earthquake readiness:

  • Secure tall furniture and heavy items to walls
  • Strap water heater to prevent toppling
  • Know gas, electric, and water shutoff locations
  • Keep shutoff tools accessible
  • Identify safe spots in each room
  • Keep shoes and flashlight by bed
  • Water: one gallon per person per day for three days minimum
  • Food: three days of non-perishable supplies
  • First aid kit with medications
  • Battery or hand-crank radio
  • Flashlights and extra batteries
  • Whistle for signaling
  • Work gloves for debris handling
  • Important documents in grab-and-go container
  • Cash in small bills
  • Earthquake insurance if appropriate for your risk

Recommended Gear

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do during an earthquake?
Drop to your hands and knees. Take Cover under sturdy furniture or against an interior wall. Hold On until shaking stops. Do not run outside during shaking. Do not stand in doorways. This Drop, Cover, and Hold On approach is recommended by emergency management experts worldwide.

How long does earthquake shaking last?
Most earthquakes produce strong shaking lasting 10 to 30 seconds. Large earthquakes may shake for a minute or more. It often feels longer than it actually is. Remain in your protective position until you are certain shaking has completely stopped.

Should I stand in a doorway during an earthquake?
No. This outdated advice no longer applies. Modern doorframes are not stronger than other parts of the building and put you at risk from swinging doors. Drop, cover, and hold on under sturdy furniture or against an interior wall instead.

Can earthquakes be predicted?
No. Despite decades of research, reliable earthquake prediction is not possible. Earthquakes occur without warning. Some areas now have early warning systems that detect earthquakes and provide seconds of warning before shaking arrives, but this is not prediction.

What causes aftershocks?
Aftershocks are adjustments of the earth's crust following the stress release of the main earthquake. They occur along and near the fault that ruptured. Aftershock sequences can last months, with the largest aftershocks typically occurring shortly after the main shock.

When is it safe to go back inside after an earthquake?
Approach buildings cautiously after earthquakes. Check for obvious structural damage from outside. Smell for gas before entering. If you have any concerns about structural safety, wait for professional inspection. Buildings may be tagged with safety status by engineers.

Should I turn off my gas after an earthquake?
Turn off gas if you smell gas or suspect damage. Do not turn off gas simply as a precaution because restoration requires a utility visit. If you turn it off, do not turn it back on yourself. Call your gas utility for restoration.

How do I prepare my house for earthquakes?
Secure furniture and heavy items to walls. Strap your water heater. Know utility shutoffs. Store breakables on lower shelves. Have emergency supplies accessible. Consider retrofitting if your house has known vulnerabilities like a raised foundation without bolting.

Does earthquake insurance make sense?
This depends on your location, property value, and financial situation. Earthquake insurance has high deductibles (often 10 to 20 percent of dwelling coverage) but protects against catastrophic loss. Evaluate your seismic risk and ability to self-insure before deciding.

What is liquefaction?
Liquefaction occurs when saturated sandy soil loses strength during shaking and behaves like liquid. Buildings on liquefied ground can sink or tilt. Liquefaction is common in filled land near water. If you live in a liquefaction zone, understand your risk.

Should I get under my bed during an earthquake?
Only if you cannot get under a sturdy table and your bed is next to an exterior wall you should avoid. The space under most beds is too small for protection and beds can collapse. Getting beside the bed is better. Best is under sturdy furniture away from windows.

How do I help someone who is trapped after an earthquake?
If you can safely help, do so. Do not enter heavily damaged structures. For light debris, carefully remove materials. For serious entrapment, call for professional rescue assistance. Talk to trapped persons to reassure them. Provide water if possible. Do not give food to injured persons.

About the Author

Mike The Rock writes practical emergency preparedness guides for Ready Atlas. His focus is on calm, actionable information that helps ordinary people handle extraordinary situations.

Disclaimer: This guide provides general educational information for emergency preparedness. Always follow guidance from local emergency management and building safety officials. For emergencies, contact emergency services (911 in US, 112 in EU). For building safety questions, consult qualified structural engineers.