1 km SW of Otura, Spain
August 14, 2026 at 11:04 PM (UTC)
© OpenStreetMap
Safety Guidelines (23 tips)
During Shaking
- Drop, Cover, and Hold On — get under a sturdy desk or table, cover your head and neck, and hold on until shaking stops
- Stay away from windows, mirrors, and heavy furniture that could fall or shatter
- If in bed, stay there and cover your head with a pillow unless you are under something heavy that could fall
- If outdoors, move to an open area away from buildings, power lines, trees, and street signs
- If in a vehicle, pull over to a safe spot away from bridges, overpasses, and power lines — stay inside until shaking stops
- Do not run outside during shaking — falling debris causes most injuries near building exits
Right After Shaking
- Check yourself and others for injuries before moving — apply first aid if trained
- Be prepared for aftershocks — they can occur minutes, hours, or even days later and can be nearly as strong
- If you smell gas, open windows and shut off the main gas valve. Leave the building and report it
- Check for electrical damage — sparks, broken wires, burning smell. Turn off power at the breaker if unsafe
- Do not use elevators — take the stairs and be alert for cracked steps or debris
- Turn on a battery-powered radio or check official channels for updates and advisories
For Strong Earthquakes Like This One
- Inspect your home for structural damage — cracked walls, tilted floors, or damaged foundations — before re-entering
- If near the coast, move to higher ground immediately — a tsunami may follow. Do not wait for an official warning
- Keep your phone charged and reserve battery for emergency calls only — networks will be congested
- Have a go-bag ready: water, medications, cash, important documents, flashlight, N95 mask, sturdy shoes
- Establish an out-of-area contact — long-distance lines often work when local ones are jammed
Be Prepared Before the Next One
- Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for a minimum of three days (two weeks for high-risk zones)
- Bolt tall furniture, water heaters, and bookshelves to wall studs — falling objects cause most earthquake injuries
- Practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On with your family — muscle memory saves seconds when it matters
- Identify safe spots in every room — under sturdy tables, against interior walls away from windows
- Keep sturdy shoes and a flashlight next to your bed for nighttime earthquakes
- Learn to shut off gas, water, and electricity at the main valves — keep tools nearby
Data sourced from USGS (United States Geological Survey). This page is auto-generated for public awareness.
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