About National Richter Scale Day
A day to recognize the importance of Charles Francis Richter's research and his work in development of the earthquake magnitude scale that is known as the Richter scale.
An American author, physicist and seismologist, Charles Francis Richter is most famous as the creator of the Richter magnitude scale. Richter was born April 26th 1900, near Hamilton, OH.
Earthquake Awareness Week is observed in recognition of his work.
| magnitude level | category | effects | earthquakes per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| less than 1.0 to 2.9 | micro | generally not felt by people, though recorded on local instruments | more than 100,000 |
| 3.0–3.9 | minor | felt by many people; no damage | 12,000–100,000 |
| 4.0–4.9 | light | felt by all; minor breakage of objects | 2,000–12,000 |
| 5.0–5.9 | moderate | some damage to weak structures | 200–2,000 |
| 6.0–6.9 | strong | moderate damage in populated areas | 20–200 |
| 7.0–7.9 | major | serious damage over large areas; loss of life | 3–20 |
| 8.0 and higher | great | severe destruction and loss of life over large areas | fewer than 3 |
- Did you know? In 1960, the strongest earthquake on record occurred in Chile. It had a magnitude of 9.5 (out of 10) on the Richter scale.
- Did you know? The most destructive earthquake ever, occurred in 1755. It completely destroyed Lisbon, the capital of Portugal.
- Did you know? On 23 January 1556, the deadliest earthquake in history killed about 830 000 people in Shensi, China..
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