Earthquake in Burma: What Caused It?

Earthquake in Burma: What Caused It?

International news reports about the 7.7-magnitude earthquake at Burma caused so many a question of where it is from, contagious earthquake to Thailand. Now, Let us have basic principle in mind.

When tectonic plates move = ground shakes

The thing is, our world is not one big piece of rock. It is broken up into a number of tectonic plates that drift on a layer of magma beneath. These plates are in constant motion behind the scenes, but we hardly know it… until they ''store energy'' and all of a sudden release it all = earthquake.

So what caused it in Burma?

The quake struck close to the border of the Indo-Australian and Eurasian tectonic plates. This is known as a ''subduction zone,'' in this case one tectonic plate is subducting beneath another. But now, the subduction is not like a car moving smoothly on the road, it gets stuck and builds up a lot of pressure.

When sufficient energy has built up, BAM! The energy is released = big earthquake.

So why is Thailand shaking?

Although Thailand does not sit on a boundary,...

1 The earth is not one solid single plate. It can be transferred from one to another.

2 Thailand's tall buildings can absorb the quaking well, though there's always a chance they will sway.

Aftershock: If a tsunami follows (depending on movement), the Andaman coast of Thailand may experience damage.

For the most part, what do you need to watch out for?

If you are in a high-rise building: find a strong shelter, such as under a sturdy table or close to a wall where things cannot fall on it.

Use your arms, pillowcases, or books to shield your head.

Stay put until the shaking stops. Do not run outside while it is still shaking you could be injured by falling or falling debris.

Stay away from fire escapes during the shaking, since they might crumble or cause you to fall.

After the earthquake stops, quickly and orderly evacuate the building and go to a safe location!

If you are near the sea: Listen to the tsunami warning announcement released by the Meteorological Department.

Check news from reputable outlets for updates on the situation.