Debunking 4 Earthquake Myths

Here are 4 common misconceptions about earthquakes and the actual truth behind them.

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MYTH 1: The doorway is the safest place to stay during an earthquake.

Fact: Doorways are as safe as any other part of the house. The safest place to be during an earthquake is still under the table.

MYTH 2: The ground can open up and swallow buildings and people.

Fact: This isn't possible since this could only happen when two plates would have to pull apart from each other, and an earthquake happens only when two plates slide past each other.

MYTH 3: Animals know when earthquakes are coming.

Fact: Observation shows that there is no consistent or perceptible behavioral changes in animals prior to an earthquake. The most that is possible is that animals can feel the earliest stages of an earthquake before humans can due to their finely tuned sense.

MYTH 4: Earthquakes can be predicted

Fact: As of now, the is no scientific way to predict exactly when earthquakes can occur. Scientists can only make statements about where earthquakes are most likely to happen in the future based on the location of their faults.

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Sources:

• http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/feature/2015/07/29/facts-and-myths-about-earthquakes-421659

• https://www.travelers.com/resources/weather/earthquakes/earthquake-facts-and-myths.aspx

• http://www.conservation.ca.gov/index/Earthquakes/Pages/qh_earthquakes_myths.aspx

• https://earthquake.usgs.gov/learn/topics/megaqk_facts_fantasy.php

• https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/Earthquake-Myths-172886441.html

#facts