Mercalli scale measures the intensity, Intensity scales do not measure the energy of an earthquake -

they measure its effects on humans. The intensity depends on the distance to the epicenter and the
ability of the ground to transmit energy.

As you get further from the earthquake the intensity of the earthquake feels less.

Shaking is intensified when structures are built on landfill and sediments.

Structures built on solid bedrock have a better chance of surviving an earthquake.

Richter scale measures the magnitude

S waves are stronger than P waves, however they are slower

Tsunami Caused by a fault - which displaces the water above it - causing a wave that gets larger as it
approaches land