**Aftershocks: Smaller Earthquakes that Follow Main Events** **What Are Aftershocks?** In seismology, an aftershock is a smaller earthquake that occurs after a larger earthquake, known as the main shock. Aftershocks are caused as the Earth's crust readjusts to the effects of the main shock. **Causes and Characteristics** Aftershocks are essentially minor readjustments that occur near faults or areas where stress was released during the main earthquake. They can range in magnitude from barely perceptible to damaging. Aftershocks can number in the thousands and can continue for weeks, months, or even years after the main shock. **Distinguishing Aftershocks from Foreshocks** Foreshocks and aftershocks are relative terms. Foreshocks are smaller earthquakes that occur before a larger earthquake in the same location. Aftershocks, on the other hand, follow the main shock. **Importance** Aftershocks can pose a significant hazard, as they can cause damage to buildings and infrastructure that were weakened by the main shock. It is essential to be aware of the potential for aftershocks and to take appropriate precautions to mitigate their effects.
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