The impact of an earthquake on the surface (i.e. on buildings, people, the environment and infrastructure) is described according to a 12-level intensity scale (see EMS-98 below).
Damage to buildings can be expected starting from an intensity of around VI, which corresponds to a magnitude of approximately 5. Destructive damage is to be expected after an earthquake with an intensity of IX or above. Minor cracks or damage caused by falling objects can even occur at lower intensities.
However, earthquake also trigger other process and have secondary effects.
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