Describe the primary and secondary effects of an earthquake.

One common primary (or immediate) effect of an earthquake is the destruction of buildings. The collapse of buildings could in turn lead to the loss of life. Earthquakes may also cause damage to vital infrastructure such as roads, schools and hospitals. In particular, the damage to roads is more immediate, with emergency response heavily restricted. 

From such primary effects may spawn secondary (or long term) effects. As a result of the destruction of buildings, the costs of reconstruction may leave future homes too expensive to insure. Many people will also be made homeless, and in LEDCs where house insurance is not widespread, this could cause long term problems for families. An example of this is the Kashmir Earthquake in 2005, where 3.5 million people were rendered homeless. In addition, the loss of infrastructure may increase the probability of an epidemic spreading. A good example of this is the Haiti earthquake, 2010. The weakened infrastructure around the water supply following the earthquake caused an outbreak of cholera which killed over 200,000 people, in addition to the 200,000 caused by the earthquake itself. 

Answered by Sam W. Geography tutor

24533 Views

See similar Geography GCSE tutors

Related Geography GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe the types of waves that are released during an earthquake.


How and why does a cove form?


Explain one advantage and one disadvantage of fracking.


You will have studied a recent earthquake event. To what extent is this location likely to be well prepared for an earthquake in the future? Explain your answer fully using specific detail. 6 marks.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences