What does 9.9 on the richer scale mean?

Answer 1

A magnitude of 9.9 on the Richter scale indicates an extraordinarily powerful earthquake, significantly exceeding the intensity of most earthquakes recorded in history. Such a quake would release an immense amount of energy, likely causing catastrophic damage over a vast area and potentially triggering tsunamis. While no earthquake of this magnitude has been officially recorded, it suggests an event that could fundamentally reshape landscapes and have devastating effects on human infrastructure and populations.