Experts warn that the West Coast is overdue for a significant earthquake along the San Andreas fault within the next 30 years. Predictions anticipate a magnitude of 8, leading to thousands of fatalities and severe economic damage. Geologists highlight the urgency for preparedness, as the timing of the quake remains unpredictable.
Recent assessments indicate that the West Coast of the United States is overdue for a significant earthquake along the San Andreas fault, which stretches 800 miles across California. Experts predict this earthquake may reach a magnitude of 8, potentially resulting in approximately 1,800 fatalities, 50,000 injuries, and inflicting $200 billion in damages according to the Great California Shakeout, an assessment many experts believe is conservative.
While it remains impossible to determine the precise timing of ‘The Big One’ or any earthquake, specialists express confidence that such an event could occur within the next 30 years. Geologic research indicates that major earthquakes tend to happen along the San Andreas fault at intervals of roughly 150 years, with the previous significant quake occurring 167 years ago.
Christie Rowe, Director of the Nevada Seismological Laboratory, emphasized the urgency of preparedness by stating, “We want people to know that this could happen at any time. It could be another 300 years, or it could happen tomorrow.” When the anticipated earthquake occurs, the first 30 seconds will feature intense ground shaking, especially near the epicenter and along the fault line, with cities such as Palm Springs experiencing tremors of up to level 9 intensity.
According to the Great California Shakeout, if the epicenter is near the Salton Sea, shaking at levels 2 to 3 will reach Los Angeles approximately 45 seconds after the initial rupture. Severe tremors will escalate over the next 90 seconds, with violent shaking at level 9 affecting Los Angeles for a minimum of one minute.
By the time this level of shaking occurs, substantial damage to infrastructure is anticipated, potentially leading to serious injuries or fatalities. Rowe cautioned, “The magnitude of damage is so great that it’s not trivial to prepare for it.”
In conclusion, the risk of a mega-earthquake along California’s San Andreas fault is a pressing concern for experts, who predict a significant seismic event could occur within the next three decades. The potential destruction could result in thousands of casualties and extensive economic losses. Experts urge communities to prepare comprehensively for such a disaster, emphasizing that the timing of the earthquake remains uncertain, but its implications could be catastrophic.
Original Source: www.dailystar.co.uk
