Major Geological Hazards

Earthquakes
- Earthquakes are one of the most destructive geological hazards.
- They occur when there is a sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust, causing the ground to shake.
- The severity of an earthquake is measured using the Richter scale, which measures the amplitude of seismic waves.
- Earthquakes can cause buildings and infrastructure to collapse, leading to loss of life and extensive damage.
- They can also trigger other hazards such as landslides and tsunamis.
- Some of the most devastating earthquakes in history include the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and the 2011 Tohoku earthquake in Japan.

Tsunamis
- Tsunamis are large ocean waves that are usually caused by underwater earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.
- When an earthquake occurs beneath the ocean floor, it displaces water and generates a series of waves that can travel across the ocean.
- As these waves approach the shoreline, they increase in height and can cause widespread destruction.
- Tsunamis can inundate coastal areas, destroy infrastructure, and result in the loss of thousands of lives.
- The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, triggered by a magnitude 9.1 earthquake, is one of the deadliest tsunamis in history, causing widespread devastation in several countries.

Landslides
- Landslides occur when masses of rock, soil, or debris move down a slope due to gravity.
- They can be triggered by various factors, including earthquakes, heavy rainfall, and human activities.
- Landslides can cause significant damage to infrastructure, homes, and vegetation.
- They can also block rivers and streams, leading to flooding and further destruction.
- Areas with steep slopes, weak rocks, and heavy rainfall are particularly prone to landslides.
- The 2014 Oso landslide in Washington State, USA, resulted in the loss of 43 lives and destroyed numerous homes.

Conclusion
Earthquakes, tsunamis, and landslides are major geological hazards that pose significant risks to human life and infrastructure. Understanding these hazards, their causes, and their potential impacts is crucial for effective disaster preparedness and mitigation measures.