The sudden and violent shaking of the earth’s surface is called an earthquake. Among all natural disasters, earthquakes are the most frightening and destructive, striking fear in people’s hearts. No other calamity can cause so much damage and loss in such a short time over such a large area.

A strong earthquake can last only a few seconds or minutes, yet its force is tremendous. It is often accompanied by a loud rumbling sound. The power of a severe earthquake is said to be thousands of times stronger than the first atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima.

Earthquakes occur when rocks deep inside the earth’s crust crack under pressure. This releases waves of vibrations that spread outwards and shake the ground violently.

The scene at the site of an earthquake is terrifying. With the first tremors, utensils and household objects rattle, warning people of danger. Frightened people rush out of their homes in panic, crying for safety. Buildings, bridges and dams shake dangerously and may collapse like a pack of cards. Those caught unprepared are often crushed under the debris. Even animals and cattle tied up in shelters are trapped and killed before they can be freed.

The destruction is widespread. Roads split apart, railway lines twist and electric poles and water pipes break. Gas leaks and damaged power lines often lead to fires. Sometimes, earthquakes also trigger floods by damaging dams or bursting underground water channels. In certain cases, they are followed by volcanic eruptions, where burning lava flows out, destroying everything in its path. Thousands and at times even lakhs, of lives are lost.

Earthquakes also change the face of the earth. Mountains may rise where there were plains and seas may swallow up land. Some islands sink completely, while new ones emerge. Tidal waves, or tsunamis, often sweep across coastal areas, washing away entire towns. Rivers may change their course, turning deserts green or fertile fields into barren land.

The most fearful fact about earthquakes is that they usually strike without warning. Scientists are still unable to predict them with accuracy and there is no way to prevent them. In spite of all the progress of science and technology, humans remain helpless before this mighty natural disaster.