M 7.2 earthquake in Haiti August 14

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In summary, the Wikipedia article discusses the recent deadly earthquake that occurred in Haiti. According to USGS, the most likely scenario estimates 1000-10,000 deaths, making it the deadliest earthquake of the year. However, an hour later, the estimates increased to over 100,000 deaths, potentially surpassing the 2010 Haiti earthquake. Despite having a larger magnitude, the earthquake was weaker in shaking and farther away from the capital. The earthquake was shallow, at a depth of 10 km, resulting in violent shaking at the surface. There have been several aftershocks and the current number of casualties stands at 2200 dead, 350 missing, and 12,000 injured. These figures are lower than the initial
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Wikipedia article (still rapidly evolving of course)

USGS estimates 1000-10,000 deaths as most likely scenario, most likely the deadliest earthquake this year: https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/us6000f65h/executive
Edit: An hour later the most likely scenario is now over 100,000 deaths. That could make it the deadliest earthquake since the 2010 Haiti earthquake 100 km away.

Larger magnitude than the 2010 earthquake, but weaker shaking (edit: not with updated estimates) and farther away from the capital.
 
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mfb said:
USGS estimates 1000-10,000 deaths as most likely scenario, most likely the deadliest earthquake this year: https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/us6000f65h/executive
It was a shallow earthquake, 10 km depth, meaning a lot of violent shaking at the surface. There have been several aftershocks in the high 4 and low 5 M range.
 
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2200 dead, 350 missing, 12,000 injured. Looks like the initial estimates were too pessimistic. It's still by far the worst earthquake this year.
 
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1. What caused the M 7.2 earthquake in Haiti on August 14?

The earthquake in Haiti on August 14 was caused by the movement of the Enriquillo-Plantain Garden fault zone, which runs along the southern coast of Haiti. This fault zone is known for producing large earthquakes and has been responsible for major earthquakes in Haiti in the past.

2. How strong was the earthquake in Haiti on August 14?

The earthquake in Haiti on August 14 was initially reported as a magnitude 7.2, making it a major earthquake. However, this magnitude was later revised to 7.0 by the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

3. Were there any aftershocks following the M 7.2 earthquake in Haiti on August 14?

Yes, there have been numerous aftershocks following the M 7.2 earthquake in Haiti on August 14. As of August 17, there have been over 200 aftershocks with magnitudes ranging from 4.0 to 5.9.

4. What kind of damage did the M 7.2 earthquake in Haiti on August 14 cause?

The earthquake in Haiti on August 14 caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure, particularly in the southwestern part of the country near the epicenter. Many homes and buildings have collapsed or been severely damaged, and roads and bridges have also been affected.

5. Is there a risk of a tsunami following the M 7.2 earthquake in Haiti on August 14?

No, there is no risk of a tsunami following the M 7.2 earthquake in Haiti on August 14. The earthquake occurred on land and did not generate any significant tsunamis. However, it is always important to stay alert and follow any evacuation orders issued by local authorities in case of any potential tsunamis in the future.

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