A natural disaster that occurs when the Earth's tectonic plates shift is known as an earthquake. Earthquakes happen when stress builds up along geological faults, resulting in a sudden release of energy that creates seismic waves. These waves can cause significant damage depending on the magnitude of the quake and its depth. They can lead to ground shaking, aftershocks, and even tsunamis if they occur under the ocean. Understanding earthquake patterns and preparing for them is vital for minimizing their devastating effects on communities.