How is the destruction of an earthquake measured?

The destruction caused by an earthquake is primarily measured using the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale, which assesses the effects of the quake on people, buildings, and the Earth's surface. It ranges from I (not felt) to XII (total destruction) based on observations and reports. Additionally, the moment magnitude scale (Mw) quantifies the energy released at the earthquake's source, providing a numerical value that reflects the quake's overall size. Seismographs are also used to record ground motion, aiding in the assessment of an earthquake's impact.