Lightning is caused by the accumulation of electrical charges in clouds. Positive charges collect near the upper edges of clouds and negative charges near the lower edges. When the positive and negative charges meet between clouds or between clouds and the ground, it produces streaks of bright light called lightning. Lightning conductors are used to protect buildings by providing a safe path for electricity to travel from the lightning strike into the ground without harming the structure. Earthquakes are caused by movements of the Earth's tectonic plates and can cause damage. Areas with fault lines between plates are more prone to earthquakes. The Richter scale is used to measure the magnitude and destructive power of earthquakes. Protective measures during an earthquake include hiding under stur