Skip main navigation

Experiencing earthquakes

Read an introduction to earthquakes and consider where in the world they typically strike.
A world map with dots of different colours highlighting where earthquakes occurred and their size as denoted by colour.
© Cardiff University

Earthquakes are a regular and frequent activity on our planet. There are millions recorded everyday all over the world.

They range from ones so small that we don’t even feel them, to larger earthquakes that can be devastating.

The US Geological Survey lets people record if they’ve felt an earthquake. This helps them develop a record of current activity all over the world.

Latest earthquakes

Take a look at their latest earthquakes map to view recent activity and then attempt the questions below.

Over to you

  • Are you near to any of the earthquakes currently recorded?
  • What do you notice about where earthquakes are being recorded?
  • Have you ever experienced an earthquake? Where was it and can you describe your experience?
© Cardiff University
This article is from the free online

Extreme Geological Events

Created by
FutureLearn - Learning For Life

Reach your personal and professional goals

Unlock access to hundreds of expert online courses and degrees from top universities and educators to gain accredited qualifications and professional CV-building certificates.

Join over 18 million learners to launch, switch or build upon your career, all at your own pace, across a wide range of topic areas.

Start Learning now