Experts warn of a high probability that a mega-earthquake could strike the West Coast along the San Andreas Fault within 30 years. The expected magnitude is 8, which could result in 1,800 deaths and $200 billion in damages. Research indicates that such disasters have occurred roughly every 150 years, emphasizing the urgency for preparedness.
Experts express alarm regarding a potential mega-earthquake that might occur within the next 30 years along the San Andreas Fault. This fault, which stretches 800 miles across California, is overdue for a significant seismic event. Predictions indicate that such an earthquake, estimated to have a magnitude of 8, could result in approximately 1,800 fatalities, 50,000 injuries, and economic losses amounting to $200 billion, according to data from the Great California Shakeout. Some experts assert that these figures may actually be conservative.
While it is impossible to definitively predict the timing of “The Big One,” geologists suggest it is likely to occur within the next three decades. Research indicates that substantial earthquakes typically happen along the San Andreas Fault every 150 years, with the last major event occurring 167 years ago. Christie Rowe, Director of the Nevada Seismological Laboratory, remarked, “We want people to know that this could happen at any time. It could be another 300 years, or it could happen tomorrow.”
In the event of such an earthquake, intense ground shaking would commence within the first 30 seconds. Regions within a 60-mile radius of the epicenter, including areas along the fault line such as Palm Springs, might experience shaking intensity reaching level 9. This violent shaking poses a serious risk of significant structural damage, potentially causing buildings to collapse or displace from their foundations, per information from the United States Geological Survey.
If the earthquake’s epicenter is near the Salton Sea, regions as far away as Los Angeles could feel shaking between levels 2 and 3 approximately 45 seconds following the initial rupture. After approximately 75 seconds, the intensity of ground movement is expected to increase, culminating in violent shaking at level 9 about 90 seconds post-event. Such destructive forces could impact Los Angeles for a duration of at least one minute, likely resulting in extensive property damage by that time. Rowe emphasized the need for preparedness, stating, “The magnitude of damage is so great that it’s not trivial to prepare for it.”
In summary, experts are increasingly concerned about the imminent risk of a significant earthquake along the San Andreas Fault within the next 30 years. This event could lead to severe casualties and extensive economic losses. The historical frequency of large-magnitude earthquakes, coupled with the uncertainties surrounding seismic predictions, highlights the critical importance of preparedness in mitigating potential disasters on the West Coast.
Original Source: www.dailystar.co.uk
