Safety Month Series: Earthquake SafetyJune 16, 2008 |
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 Most people know that living in California means you may experience an earthquake. But what if the big one hits? Recently the U.S. Geological Survey unveiled a hypothetical scenario describing how a magnitude 7.8 earthquake — similar to the recent earthquake in China — would impact Southern California. The results are staggering. In the scenario, the earthquake would kill 1,800 and injure 50,000 people, cause $200 billion in damage, and have long-lasting social and economic consequences. To create the scenario, geologists determined the amount of potential motion from the San Andreas Fault with the greatest risk of imminent rupture. Seismologists, computer scientists, engineers, building professionals and social scientists evaluated potential building damage, casualties, and the impact on our economy and society. To help Californians prepare for this potential disaster, the Earthquake Country Alliance, a public-private partnership between leading earthquake professionals, and other community leaders, used the "Scenario" report to plan the Great Southern California ShakeOut. The ShakeOut will be the largest earthquake drill in U.S. history, organized to inspire Southern Californians to prepare for big earthquakes and prevent disasters from becoming catastrophes. ShakeOut activities will take place November 12-16, with the actual drill held on November 13th. Other activities encouraging earthquake preparedness include the International Earthquake Conference, sponsored by the City of Los Angeles; the Los Angeles Earthquake Get Ready Rally; Golden Guardian Emergency Response Exercise, an annual state-wide emergency response drill; and the Take One More Step day. |
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