I feel for the people of Haiti. They were recently hit again by a major earthquake and are suffering. To better understand the situation, I illustrated, designed, and heavily edited an earthquake book from a public domain book to make it an up-to-date STEM / STEAM middle grade book for kids.

IN ONE DAY

On August 25, 2021, the Hawaii Volcano Observatory reported 140 small earthquakes (1 to 3.3). Fortunately, no-one was hurt. But it may indicate that Mount Kilauea will start erupting soon.

THE CARIBBEAN PLATE PUSHES EASTWARD

But earlier on August 14th, 2021 a major earthquake (7.2) struck Haiti. The small country lies on the western end of the island of Hispaniola. Haiti was devastated by an earthquake in 2010 (7.0) from which it still hasn’t fully recovered.

There are two faults in this region of the Caribbean, one is “dominantly strike-slip and the other is a small component of subduction plate.” This strike-slip fault is extra destructive because as the two plates slip past each other they get stuck. However the Caribbean fault continues to push east while the tension increases until it breaks free, (like when you snap your fingers). The people in Haiti are starving and desperate for aid. There’s lots of ways to help. Google “how to help people in Haiti” for suggestions. Educate yourself. It’s always good to learn something new.