Experts warn of a potential mega-earthquake along the San Andreas fault, likely within 30 years. With a projected magnitude of 8, the event could lead to about 1,800 deaths, 50,000 injuries, and $200 billion in damages. Significant ground shaking could devastate regions within a 60-mile radius of the epicenter, particularly impacting cities like Los Angeles. Experts emphasize the need for immediate preparedness.
Experts are increasingly concerned about the potential for a devastating mega-earthquake along the San Andreas fault, a major geological fracture extending 800 miles through California. This earthquake is projected to have a magnitude of 8, and the implications for the state could be catastrophic, with estimates suggesting around 1,800 fatalities, 50,000 injuries, and financial damages reaching $200 billion, as reported by the Great California Shakeout. Remarkably, many experts believe these figures may be conservative.
Prediction of precisely when ‘The Big One’ will occur remains elusive, yet experts assert it is likely to happen within the next 30 years. According to geological data, a significant earthquake on the San Andreas fault typically occurs approximately every 150 years, with the most recent event taking place 167 years ago. Christie Rowe, Director of the Nevada Seismological Laboratory, emphasized the urgency of preparation, stating, “We want people to know that this could happen at any time. It could be another 300 years, or it could happen tomorrow.”
Upon the occurrence of this earthquake, severe ground shaking is expected to begin within the first 30 seconds, particularly affecting areas within a 60-mile radius of the epicenter, which is projected to experience tremors of intensity level 9. This level of shaking is classified as ‘violent’ and is anticipated to result in substantial structural damage, possibly leading to building collapses and displacements from their foundations, as per the United States Geological Survey.
Should the epicenter be located near the Salton Sea, regions as far as Los Angeles could experience significant shaking, with lower intensity levels (2 to 3) reaching them approximately 45 seconds post-rupture. Following that, additional high-intensity ground movements would intensify at around 90 seconds, resulting in violent shaking for a duration of at least one minute in Los Angeles.
This extended violent shaking could cause extensive destruction, overwhelming infrastructure and resulting in numerous injuries and fatalities. As Rowe aptly noted, “The magnitude of damage is so great that it’s not trivial to prepare for it.”
In conclusion, experts warn of an impending mega-earthquake along the San Andreas fault, emphasizing the urgency for preparedness in light of the potential devastation. With possible fatalities, injuries, and significant financial losses, the need for awareness and proactive measures is critical. The unpredictability of such geological events underlines the necessity for communities along the West Coast to bolster their resilience in the face of natural disasters.
Original Source: www.dailystar.co.uk
