Below is a guide to earthquake magnitude and severity:

Less than 3.5

Generally not felt, but recorded

3.5-5.4

Often felt, but rarely cause damage

Under 6.0

At most, slight damage to well-designed buildings; can cause major damage to poorly constructed buildings over small regions.

6.1-6.9

Can be destructive in areas up to about 100 kilometers (60 miles) across where people live.

7.0-7.9

Major earthquake. Can cause serious damage over areas greater than 100 kilometers (60 miles) across.

8 or greater

Great earthquake. Can cause serious damage in areas several hundred kilometers (miles) across.

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