This article emphasizes earthquake preparedness in Whatcom County following a recent 4.5 magnitude quake. It outlines potential hazards, encourages residents to sign up for alerts, and provides essential actions to take during an earthquake. Given the high frequency of earthquakes in Washington, it stresses the necessity for individuals to create emergency plans and readiness kits.
On March 3, a 4.5 magnitude earthquake surprised residents of Whatcom County, causing some to awaken to alerts from the MyShake™ app, urging them to “Drop, cover and hold on!” Thankfully, no damages were reported; however, this incident serves as a critical reminder of the necessity for preparedness against future seismic events.
Experts predict that larger earthquakes, termed the Big One, are inevitable, alongside potential minor earthquakes that may also cause significant damage. The U.S. Geological Survey emphasizes the complexity of assessing potential damage, which hinges on factors such as magnitude, geographical location, population density, and the condition of buildings. Preparedness remains crucial for enhancing recovery prospects post-disaster.
Residents should consider the specific hazards likely to affect their locale, including:
– Potential liquefaction in certain areas of Whatcom County
– Unstable roads and bridges
– Ruptured utility lines
– Possible tsunamis or flooding following an earthquake
Furthermore, individuals are advised to sign up for alerts and warnings. Recommended alerts include:
– Familiarity with the necessary actions upon receiving an alert or sensing shaking, such as:
– Dropping, covering, and holding on to protect oneself
– Avoiding glass windows or risky items if coverage is unavailable
– Pulling over if driving and applying the emergency brake
– Moving to higher ground if located near the shore
Preparation is further encouraged by creating a Go Bag and developing a comprehensive Two Weeks Ready plan. Given that Washington experiences over 1,000 earthquakes annually, with 20 of these historically causing damage in the past 125 years, readiness is essential. The probability of future earthquakes necessitates immediate attention and action.
In summary, the recent earthquake highlights the importance of preparedness against potential seismic events. Residents of Whatcom County should familiarize themselves with local hazards, establish emergency protocols, and create preparedness plans to enhance their resilience. Given the frequency of earthquakes in Washington, proactive measures are essential for ensuring safety and effective recovery in the event of a disaster.
Original Source: mybellinghamnow.com
