|
Rating
|
Description |
Identifying Features |
|
1
|
Instrumental |
Detected only by seismographs |
|
2
|
Feeble |
Noticed by sensitive people |
|
3
|
Slight |
Similar to a passing lorry (truck) |
|
4
|
Moderate |
Loose objects are rocked |
|
5
|
Rather strong |
Felt generally |
|
6
|
Strong |
Trees sway; loose objects fall |
|
7
|
Very strong |
Walls crack |
|
8
|
Destructive |
Chimneys fall; masonry cracks |
|
9
|
Ruinous |
Houses collapse where ground starts to crack |
|
10
|
Disastrous |
Ground badly cracked; buildings destroyed |
|
11
|
Very disastrous |
Bridges and most buildings destroyed; landslides |
|
12
|
Catastrophic |
Ground moves in waves; total destruction |