Earthquakes occur when sections of the Earth's crust move in relation to one another. Small earthquakes occur every day in different parts of the world, but most are too weak to be noticed.

Major earthquakes are much less common but occur particularly frequently around the Pacific Rim, including parts of Japan, Indonesia and the western coasts of North and South America. Earthquakes also occur in other regions, including parts of the Mediterranean, Türkiye and Greece. Undersea earthquakes can sometimes generate tsunamis.

If You Are Indoors

• Drop, cover and hold on: drop to your hands and knees, take cover under a sturdy table or desk if possible, and hold on until the shaking stops.
• If no suitable shelter is available, stay low and protect your head and neck, preferably beside an interior wall away from windows.
• Stay away from windows, glass, balconies, shelves and objects that could fall.
• Do not stand in a doorway unless you know that it provides structural protection.
• Never use a lift during or immediately after an earthquake.
• When the shaking has stopped, leave damaged buildings carefully if it is safe to do so and be prepared for aftershocks.

If You Are Outdoors

• Move to an open area if you can do so safely.
• Stay away from buildings, walls, bridges, power lines, trees and other structures that could fall.
• Watch for falling debris and broken glass.
• Remain in a safe open area until the shaking has stopped.