Experts Forewarn Incoming Mega-Earthquake on the San Andreas Fault

Experts warn that the West Coast, particularly the San Andreas fault, is overdue for a mega-earthquake, likely to hit within the next 30 years. Anticipated at a magnitude of 8, the disaster could result in approximately 1,800 deaths and $200 billion in damages. The unpredictable nature of seismic activity requires urgent preparedness.

Experts express growing concern regarding the imminent possibility of a significant mega-earthquake impacting the West Coast of the United States, particularly along the San Andreas fault. This fracture spans 800 miles throughout California and is overdue for a catastrophic event. Anticipated at a magnitude of 8, such an earthquake would likely result in approximately 1,800 fatalities, 50,000 injuries, and an estimated $200 billion in damages, a figure derived from the Great California Shakeout, though experts caution this may be an underestimate.

While the exact timing of ‘The Big One’ remains unpredictable, specialists believe it could occur within the next three decades. Geological studies indicate that a substantial quake along the San Andreas fault happens every 150 years, with the last event recorded 167 years ago. Christie Rowe, Director of the Nevada Seismological Laboratory, emphasized the urgency of preparedness, 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 strikes, severe ground shaking will commence within the initial 30 seconds. Areas within a 60-mile radius of the epicenter, including fault line cities such as Palm Springs, could experience shaking intensity reaching level 9. The United States Geological Survey warns that such violent shaking would lead to substantial structural damage, potentially resulting in buildings collapsing or shifting from their foundations.

Should the epicenter be situated near the Salton Sea, Los Angeles would experience shaking intensity levels 2 to 3 after approximately 45 seconds following the initial rupture. Following 75 seconds, the tremors would intensify, culminating in violent shaking at level 9 around 90 seconds post-quake. This level of shaking could profoundly affect Los Angeles for at least one minute, resulting in extensive damage and numerous injuries or fatalities.

Rowe remarked on the challenges of preparing for such an overwhelming event, noting that “the magnitude of damage is so great that it’s not trivial to prepare for it.” This emphasizes the critical need for proactive measures to mitigate the potential impact of a mega-earthquake on urban areas along the fault line.

In summary, experts warn of an impending mega-earthquake on the West Coast, particularly along the San Andreas fault, with predictions of devastating consequences. The unpredictability of such seismic events necessitates thorough preparation and awareness among the public, as significant casualties and destruction could arise at any time. The observed historical patterns of seismic activity further reinforce the urgency of this matter, highlighting the need for sustained vigilance and readiness to face this potential disaster.

Original Source: www.dailystar.co.uk