Magnitude Earthquake – Effects Estimated Number – Each Year
2.5 or less – Usually not felt, but can be recorded by seismograph. – 900,000
2.5 to 5.4 – Often felt, but only causes minor damage. – 30,000
5.5 to 6.0 – light damage to buildings and other structures. – 500
6.1 to 6.9 – May cause a lot of damage in very populated areas. – 100
7.0 to 7.9 – Major earthquake. Serious damage. – 20
8.0 or greater – Great earthquake. Can totally destroy communities near the epicenter. – One every 5 to 10 years
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