The earth is a dynamic and often volatile planet, with tectonic plates constantly shifting and grinding against one another. When these plates slip, they release immense amounts of energy, triggering earthquakes that can devastate urban areas and claim thousands of lives in seconds. Scientists are working to understand the mechanics of these seismic events, seeking ways to predict them and mitigate their impact on our increasingly populated world. From the devastating 1906 San Francisco earthquake to the 1995 Kobe earthquake, history shows the catastrophic potential of these natural disasters, and the ongoing efforts to build safer, more resilient cities.