The Earth's surface is made of large pieces called tectonic plates.
地球表面由许多巨大的板块组成，叫做地壳板块。
These plates are always moving, but we usually do not feel it.
这些板块一直在缓慢移动，但我们通常感觉不到。
Sometimes, the plates push against each other or slide past one another.
有时，板块会互相挤压或滑动。
When the pressure becomes too strong, the rocks suddenly break or shift.
当压力过大时，岩层就会突然断裂或移动。
This sudden movement causes an earthquake.
这种突然而剧烈的运动就会引发地震。
Earthquakes can make the ground shake.
地震会让地面剧烈震动。
Strong earthquakes can destroy buildings, roads, and bridges.
强烈的地震可能会破坏建筑物、道路和桥梁。
If an earthquake happens under the ocean, it can cause a tsunami.
如果地震发生在海底，就可能引发海啸。
A tsunami is a huge wave that can flood coastal areas.
海啸是一种巨大的海浪，可能会淹没沿海地区。
Scientists use special tools to measure earthquakes.
科学家使用特殊仪器来测量地震。
They use a scale called the Richter scale to show how strong an earthquake is.
他们使用里氏震级来表示地震的强度。
It is hard to predict exactly when an earthquake will happen.
目前很难准确预测地震何时发生。
During an earthquake, stay calm and protect yourself.
地震发生时，要保持冷静并保护自己。
If you are indoors, hide under a strong table or desk.
如果你在室内，要躲在坚固的桌子或家具下。
Stay away from windows and heavy objects that can fall.
远离窗户和可能掉落的重物。
If you are outside, stay away from buildings and trees.
如果你在户外，要远离建筑物和树木。
After the shaking stops, check for safety before moving.
震动停止后，要确认安全后再行动。
People in earthquake-prone areas should be prepared for emergencies.
生活在地震多发地区的人们应该做好紧急准备。
Now you know that earthquakes are caused by movements of the Earth's crust and how to stay safe!
现在你知道地震是地壳运动引起的，并且了解了如何保护自己了！
