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Earthquake Response and Recovery

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Earthquakes are a result of the pressure that builds up deep underneath the earth's crust, which is divided into large sections called "plates."  When the ground shifts due to the pressure, these plates create waves of vibration within the earth to then create ground motion at the surface.

If an earthquake occurs in a populated area, it may cause many deaths and injuries and extensive property damage. Although there are no guarantees of safety during an earthquake, identifying potential hazards ahead of time and advance planning can save lives and significantly reduce injuries and property damage.

This Earthquake Response and Recovery page is designed to be a quick guide for preparing yourself and your family for before, during, and after a tornado.

Before an Earthquake

Preparing for an Earthquake

Monitoring Earthquakes

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) Earthquake Hazards Program focuses on efforts to reduce earthquake hazard in the United States.  The Earthquake Hazard Program is part of the multi-agency National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP).

During an Earthquake

After an Earthquake

Recover and Rebuild

How do I file an insurance claim from damage due to an earthquake?

IRS Assistance

Preparing for Future Earthquakes

What can be done to prepare for earthquakes?

How Does Mitigation Help?

Mitigation is the effort to reduce the loss of life and property by lessening the impact of disasters. A recent study by the Multihazard Mitigation Council shows that each dollar spent on mitigation saves an average of four dollars. FEMA’s Mitigation Directorate implements numerous Congressionally-authorized programs that address the effects of natural hazards through mitigation activities.

What kind of Federal Financial Assistance is there?

Earthquake-Related Best Practices

Communities that have experienced earthquake disasters have documented their recovery and prevention efforts and success to share with others in the form of best practices.  Here is a sampling of these best practices related to earthquake disaster recovery, and hazard mitigation and prevention.  Click here to search for additional best practices. 

Best Practices from the State of California

Best Practices from other States

Last Modified: Friday, 14-Aug-2009 11:33:20 EDT