About Earthquake Archive
Your comprehensive resource for historical earthquake data and seismic information worldwide.
What is the Earthquake Archive?
The Earthquake Archive is a comprehensive, searchable database containing detailed information about significant earthquakes worldwide from 1900 to the present day. With over 50,000 earthquake records, our archive provides researchers, students, educators, and the general public with access to reliable historical seismic data.
Each earthquake entry includes essential information such as magnitude, precise location coordinates, depth, date and time, and geographical context. Our mission is to make earthquake data accessible, understandable, and useful for education, research, and public awareness about seismic activity around the world.
Data Source Information
Our earthquake data is sourced from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) Significant Earthquakes Database. The USGS is a scientific agency of the United States government that provides reliable, impartial information about Earth science, natural hazards, and the environment.
Note: The USGS maintains one of the most comprehensive and scientifically accurate earthquake databases in the world, using data from seismographic stations worldwide.
The database includes earthquakes that are considered "significant" based on criteria such as magnitude, damage caused, number of casualties, or scientific importance. This ensures that the archive focuses on earthquakes that have historical, scientific, or educational relevance.
How to Use This Site
Search by Location
Use the search feature to find earthquakes in specific countries, regions, or cities. Simply enter a location name to see all recorded earthquakes in that area.
Browse by Magnitude
Filter earthquakes by magnitude range to focus on moderate, strong, major, or great earthquakes. Each magnitude category provides insight into the energy and potential impact.
Explore Timelines
Browse earthquakes by year and month to understand seismic patterns over time. This is useful for historical research and trend analysis.
View Statistics
Access statistical summaries showing the strongest earthquakes, most active regions, and other interesting insights from our comprehensive dataset.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Earthquake Archive?
The Earthquake Archive is a comprehensive database containing detailed information about significant earthquakes worldwide from 1900 to present. Our database includes over 50,000 earthquake records with data on magnitude, location, depth, and timing of seismic events.
Where does the earthquake data come from?
Our earthquake data is sourced from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) Significant Earthquakes Database. The USGS maintains one of the most comprehensive and reliable earthquake databases in the world, tracking seismic activity globally with scientific accuracy.
How often is the earthquake data updated?
Our database contains historical earthquake data from 1900 onwards. While this is primarily a historical archive, the data represents significant earthquakes that have been verified and documented by the USGS over the past century.
What magnitude earthquakes are included in the database?
The database includes significant earthquakes, typically those with a magnitude of 4.0 or higher, as well as smaller earthquakes that caused notable damage or were felt by populations. The focus is on earthquakes that have historical, scientific, or educational importance.
How can I search for earthquakes in a specific location?
You can search for earthquakes using our search feature on the homepage. Simply enter a location name (country, city, or region) to find all recorded earthquakes in that area. You can also browse earthquakes by country using our location pages.
What information is available for each earthquake?
Each earthquake record includes magnitude, precise date and time, location coordinates (latitude and longitude), depth below the Earth's surface, place name, and additional technical details such as magnitude type and verification status.
Can I use this data for research or education?
Yes! The earthquake data is publicly available and can be used for educational purposes, research projects, data analysis, and learning about seismology and earthquake science. We encourage students, researchers, and educators to explore our comprehensive historical database.
How accurate is the earthquake data?
The data comes from the USGS, which uses advanced seismological instruments and analysis techniques. While historical data (especially from earlier decades) may have some limitations in precision compared to modern measurements, the USGS database represents the most accurate and reliable earthquake information available.
What does earthquake magnitude mean?
Earthquake magnitude is a measure of the energy released during an earthquake. The scale is logarithmic, meaning each whole number increase represents about 32 times more energy. Magnitudes range from minor (under 4.0) to great (8.0+). Our database uses various magnitude types including ML (local), Mw (moment), and Ms (surface wave).
Does this website provide real-time earthquake alerts?
No, the Earthquake Archive is a historical database focusing on significant earthquakes from 1900 onwards. For real-time earthquake information and alerts, please visit the official USGS Earthquake Hazards Program website at earthquake.usgs.gov.
Understanding Earthquake Data
Magnitude Scale
| Magnitude | Classification | Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Under 4.0 | Minor | Often felt, but rarely causes damage |
| 4.0 - 4.9 | Light | Noticeable shaking, minimal damage |
| 5.0 - 5.9 | Moderate | Can cause minor damage to buildings |
| 6.0 - 6.9 | Strong | Damage to poorly constructed buildings |
| 7.0 - 7.9 | Major | Serious damage in populated areas |
| 8.0+ | Great | Devastating damage over large areas |
Key Terms
- Epicenter
- The point on the Earth's surface directly above where the earthquake originates
- Depth
- How far below the Earth's surface the earthquake occurred, measured in kilometers
- Magnitude
- A measure of the energy released during an earthquake, typically on the Richter or Moment Magnitude scale
- Seismic Activity
- The frequency, type, and size of earthquakes experienced over a period of time in a specific area
Important Disclaimer
This website provides historical earthquake data for educational and informational purposes only. For real-time earthquake alerts, emergency information, or official earthquake monitoring, please visit earthquake.usgs.gov . In the event of an earthquake or emergency, follow official local emergency services guidance.
Have Questions?
If you have questions, feedback, or suggestions about the Earthquake Archive, we'd love to hear from you.
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