Shaken Grounds: Uncovering the Hidden Dangers of Sharm El Sheikh Earthquakes – What’s the Real Risk

Searches for the earthquake that struck South Sinai today near the city of Sharm el-Sheikh topped Egypt’s search engines and social media, sparking Egyptian curiosity about “today’s earthquake.” The Institute of Astronomical Research confirmed the earthquake observation.

The National Institute for Astronomical and Geophysical Research issued an explanatory statement, saying that stations of the National Seismic Monitoring Network affiliated to the institute, on Thursday morning, recorded an earthquake measuring 4.25 on the Richter scale at a depth of 8.5 km. The tremor struck at 7:34 a.m., 12 km northeast of Sharm El Sheikh city, and many residents reported feeling it.

– Difference between Earthquake and Earthquake

By definition, an earthquake is a sudden shaking of the Earth, but “tremor” is commonly used to describe mild earthquakes that usually do not cause damage. Although “earthquake” is used to refer to earthquakes of greater magnitude, capable of causing widespread destruction and damage.

According to the World Health Organization, the effects of earthquakes and tremors include soil liquefaction, landslides, surface cracks, and even fires or tsunamis in strong cases, while the severity of damage varies based on several factors, such as size and intensity. Seismicity, geology of the area and quality of infrastructure.

– Quantification of earthquakes and earthquake-related risks

According to the World Health Organization, earthquakes and earthquakes can cause a variety of health damage, such as death and injury from building collapse, with medium-term health effects including infection of untreated wounds, risk of chronic diseases. From health service interruptions, and health complications related to overpopulation in emergency areas.

Among other risks, earthquakes can damage health facilities and disrupt transportation, disrupt health care, and provide essential medical supplies.

– Global mortality rate associated with earthquakes

Between 1998 and 2017, earthquakes caused nearly 750,000 deaths worldwide, as natural disasters, especially earthquakes, cause massive human and material losses.

Over 125 million people were affected by earthquakes during this period, either through physical injury or loss of shelter.

– Tsunamis…the greatest hazard associated with earthquakes

Earthquakes occurring under seas or oceans can lead to tsunamis, which are considered one of the most dangerous natural disasters due to their capacity for mass destruction. The December 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami caused more than 227,000 deaths in 14 countries.