CENTURION
UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY OF MANAGEMENT
M S SWAMINATHAN SCHOOL OF AGRICULTURE
Submitted by
Name: AMBATI SATYANARAYANA
Regd. No: 2302021400006
Branch: MBA(ABM) Semester: 4TH
Subject Name DISASTER MANAGEMENT
Subject Code CUTM2798
Earthquake and Tsunami
A Comprehensive Assignment on Earthquake and Tsunami
Introduction
Natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis are among the most destructive forces on Earth. They
have caused widespread devastation, leading to loss of life and property. Understanding their causes,
effects, and mitigation strategies is crucial for minimizing their impact on society. This assignment
explores the science behind these disasters, historical case studies, and measures for preparedness and
response.
What is an Earthquake?
An earthquake is the shaking of the ground caused by the movement of tectonic plates beneath the
Earth's surface. This movement releases energy in the form of seismic waves, which travel through the
Earth's crust, causing tremors.
Causes of Earthquakes
1. Tectonic Plate Movements - The Earth's lithosphere is divided into several plates that move over
time. When these plates collide, slide past each other, or move apart, stress accumulates and is released
in the form of an earthquake.
2. Volcanic Activity - Some earthquakes are caused by magma movement beneath the Earth's surface,
particularly near active volcanoes.
3. Human Activities - Certain human activities such as mining, drilling, dam construction, and nuclear
testing can induce seismic activity.
Types of Earthquakes
1. Tectonic Earthquakes- Caused by the movement of Earth's plates.
2. Volcanic Earthquakes - Occur due to magma movement within the Earth.
3. Collapse Earthquakes - Small quakes caused by cave or underground mine collapses.
4. Explosion Earthquakes - Triggered by nuclear explosions or artificial blasts.
Effects of Earthquakes
1. Ground Shaking - Causes structural damage to buildings and infrastructure.
2. Landslides - Triggered in hilly or mountainous areas, causing further destruction.
3. Tsunamis - Underwater earthquakes can lead to massive ocean waves.
4. Loss of Life and Economic Damage - Earthquakes can result in significant casualties and financial
losses.
Case Studies of Devastating Earthquakes
1. 2011 Japan Earthquake (Magnitude 9.0) - One of the strongest earthquakes in history, causing a
tsunami and nuclear disaster.
2. 2001 Gujarat Earthquake (Magnitude 7.7) - Devastated large parts of India, leading to over 20,000
deaths.
3. 2015 Nepal Earthquake (Magnitude 7.8) - Caused massive destruction, killing nearly 9,000
people and displacing millions.
What is a Tsunami?
A tsunami is a series of powerful waves caused by underwater disturbances, such as earthquakes,
volcanic eruptions, or landslides. These waves travel across oceans at high speeds and gain height as
they approach the shore.
Causes of Tsunamis
1. Undersea Earthquakes - The most common cause of tsunamis.
2. Volcanic Eruptions - Can trigger massive waves by displacing ocean water.
3. Landslides and Glacier Collapses - Underwater landslides push ocean water, forming waves.
Effects of Tsunamis
1. Massive Flooding - Tsunamis cause widespread coastal flooding.
2. Loss of Lives and Infrastructure - Coastal cities and towns suffer immense destruction.
3. Environmental Damage - Ecosystems and marine life are severely affected.
Case Studies of Deadly Tsunamis
1. 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami - One of the deadliest tsunamis, killing over 230,000 people.
2. 2011 Japan Tsunami - Caused the Fukushima nuclear disaster and thousands of deaths.
Preparedness and Mitigation Strategies
1. Early Warning Systems - Tsunami warning buoys and earthquake detection help mitigate disasters.
2. Infrastructure Reinforcement - Buildings should be earthquake and tsunami-resistant.
3. Evacuation Plans - Communities should have clear evacuation routes and emergency plans.
Conclusion
Earthquakes and tsunamis are unpredictable but preparedness can reduce damage. Governments,
scientists, and communities must work together to enhance safety and resilience.
