Explanation

The magnitude of an earthquake is a single value that describes the size of the earthquake at its source

Earthquake Magnitude Scale

5.5 to 6.0: Slight damage to buildings and other structures.

6.1 to 6.9: May cause a lot of damage in very populated areas.

7.0 to 7.9: Major earthquake. Serious damage.

8.0 or greater: Great earthquake. Can totally destroy communities near the epicenter.

ND-21-5-2023