Experts alert that California’s San Andreas fault could experience a massive earthquake, estimated at magnitude 8, within the next 30 years. Predictions include 1,800 deaths, 50,000 injuries, and $200 billion in damages. The urgency for adequate disaster preparedness is emphasized, given the potential for devastating impacts.
Experts warn that a major earthquake is imminent along the San Andreas fault in California, which spans 800 miles. This could occur within the next 30 years, with an expected magnitude of 8, leading to catastrophic consequences including approximately 1,800 fatalities, 50,000 injuries, and $200 billion in damages, as estimated by the Great California Shakeout. Many experts believe these estimates may be conservative.
While predicting the exact timing of ‘The Big One’ remains uncertain, geologic studies indicate significant earthquakes occur approximately every 150 years along this fault, with the last major event occurring 167 years ago. Christie Rowe, Director of the Nevada Seismological Laboratory, stressed the unpredictability: “It could be another 300 years, or it could happen tomorrow.”
When the earthquake occurs, intense shaking will commence rapidly. Areas within a 60-mile radius of the epicenter, particularly those directly on the fault line, could experience shaking intensity levels reaching 9. The United States Geological Survey notes this ‘violent’ shaking could lead to considerable structural damage and may cause buildings to collapse or shift.
If the earthquake’s epicenter is near the Salton Sea, Los Angeles could experience level 2 to 3 shaking approximately 45 seconds post-rupture, escalating to violent shaking around 90 seconds after. The Shakeout predicts that such conditions could persist for at least one minute, potentially resulting in extensive infrastructural damage and loss of life.
Rowe emphasized the critical need for preparation, stating: “The magnitude of damage is so great that it’s not trivial to prepare for it.” This conveys the urgency for residents and officials to implement preparedness measures to mitigate the devastating effects of this anticipated seismic event.
The potential for a significant earthquake along California’s San Andreas fault poses severe risks to millions. With the next 30 years likely providing the timeframe for such an event, experts emphasize the importance of preparedness due to predicted fatalities, injuries, and extensive damage. The call for action from geologists and seismologists highlights the unpredictable nature of seismic activity and the challenges of minimizing the catastrophic impact of this impending disaster.
Original Source: www.dailystar.co.uk
