How many seconds at most can the ground shake if there is an earthquake?

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How many seconds at most can the ground shake if there is an earthquake?

I am so scared. Yesterday I felt an earthquake but it lasted only about 5-6 seconds. My dad told me to relax and everything will be okay but I was just really frightened. I want to learn more about earthquakes and how many seconds do they last!

Thanks!

2006-12-21 04:57:43 · 2 answers · asked by indiana_pehlivanova 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Earth Sciences & Geology

2 answers

Here is the record-breaker:

Location: Sumatra
Date: December 26 2004
Size: 9.1 - 9.3
Length: About 10 minutes

So, you had a baby one there -- glad you are ok!

2006-12-21 05:54:46 · answer #1 · answered by Yahzmin ♥♥ 4ever 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋

Some of the big earthquakes can last minutes. The 1964 Good Friday earthquake in Alaska (Mw ~9) lasted 5 minutes.

2006-12-21 05:32:03 · answer #2 · answered by QFL 24-7 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋