What is an Earthquake?

An earthquake is a rapid, sudden shaking of the earth’s crust due to movements of rocks within the earth.

Earthquakes are unpredictable and strike without warning.  They range in intensity from slight tremors to great shocks, and may last from a few seconds to five minutes. Shocks may come in a series over a period of several days.

During an earthquake, damage to property and injuries to persons are usually caused by falling objects and collapsing buildings. Disruption of telephone, electricity and water services may also occur.

Earthquakes can trigger other disasters, such as landslides, fires, and tsunamis.

For more information, contact:

Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM)

2-4 Haining Road

Kingston 5, Jamaica, W I

Tel: (876) 906-9674-5 or (876) 754-9077-8

Toll Free: 1-888-225-5637

Email: odpem@cwjamaica.com