Experts caution that the West Coast is overdue for a major earthquake along the San Andreas fault, which could occur within the next 30 years. With a magnitude of 8 anticipated, the disaster is expected to cause substantial casualties and economic damage. Insights from geologists and the Great California Shakeout suggest significant preparation is essential as destructive shaking could occur within minutes of the quake’s initiation.
Experts warn that the West Coast of the United States is overdue for a substantial earthquake along the San Andreas fault, a significant fracture stretching 800 miles across California. Predicted to reach a magnitude of 8, this anticipated event could severely disrupt urban areas, potentially resulting in approximately 1,800 fatalities, 50,000 injuries, and an estimated $200 billion in damages, according to the Great California Shakeout report. Many specialists consider this assessment to be a conservative estimate.
While precise predictions regarding the timing of ‘The Big One’ remain elusive, geologists believe that such a significant earthquake could occur within the next 30 years. Historical geological studies indicate that significant quakes along the San Andreas fault happen roughly every 150 years, with the last major event occurring 167 years ago. Christie Rowe, Director of the Nevada Seismological Laboratory, emphasizes that the risk is immediate: “We want people to know that this could happen at any time. It could be another 300 years, or it could happen tomorrow.”
Once an earthquake strikes, intense ground shaking would begin within the first 30 seconds. Areas within a 60-mile radius of the epicenter, such as Palm Springs, could experience shaking of up to level 9 intensity. This ‘violent’ trembling is likely to cause extensive damage to infrastructure, resulting in numerous buildings collapsing or shifting from their foundations, as stated by the United States Geological Survey.
If the epicenter lies near the Salton Sea, lower shaking levels of 2 to 3 are expected to reach Los Angeles approximately 45 seconds post-rupture. Following this initial period, higher-intensity tremors would ensue, escalating ground movement until maximum shaking at level 9 is predicted to occur about 90 seconds after the earthquake has begun. Reports suggest that violent shaking may continue to impact Los Angeles for a minimum of one minute.
The damage caused by such an event would be profound, with many structures compromised. Christie Rowe further highlighted the urgency of preparedness, stating, “The magnitude of damage is so great that it’s not trivial to prepare for it.”
In conclusion, experts have emphasized the imminent threat posed by a potential mega-earthquake along the San Andreas fault. With predictions indicating a 30-year timeframe for a devastating event, it is crucial for residents and policymakers to prioritize preparedness efforts. The substantial risks to life and infrastructure call for proactive measures to mitigate potential losses. Immediate action and awareness are necessary to address the possible catastrophic consequences of such a seismic event.
Original Source: www.dailystar.co.uk
