aftershock — a smaller earthquake following the main shock of a large earthquake

a seismologist holds a tablet showing earthquake readings while pointing to cracked pavement beneath their feet. The ground shows fresh small cracks spreading outward as loose debris falls from already-damaged buildings. Earlier damage from a major earthquake is visible with broken windows and tilted street lamps throughout the scene. Now smaller tremors cause people to steady themselves against walls and cars as dust rises from new minor ground shifts. Other residents and emergency workers pause their cleanup efforts to brace for the continued shaking. smaller earthquakes occurring after the main震 shock of a large earthquake has already passed