Experts Warn of Imminent Mega-Earthquake Threatening West Coast Cities

Experts warn of an impending mega-earthquake on the West Coast, particularly along the San Andreas fault. This event could strike within the next 30 years and is predicted to be of high magnitude, resulting in thousands of casualties and substantial financial losses. The need for preparedness is emphasized by geological studies and expert insights.

Experts are alarmed by the looming threat of a significant earthquake, often referred to as ‘The Big One,’ which could impact the West Coast of the United States within the next 30 years. Specifically, they are concerned about a massive earthquake along the San Andreas fault, a geological fault line that extends approximately 800 miles across California. The anticipated earthquake may reach a magnitude of 8, potentially resulting in severe devastation including around 1,800 fatalities, 50,000 injuries, and financial damages estimated at $200 billion, according to projections from the Great California Shakeout.

Current geologic studies indicate that large-magnitude earthquakes along the San Andreas fault are cyclical, occurring approximately every 150 years; the last significant event was over 167 years ago. Experts highlight the uncertainty regarding the exact timing of this catastrophic event; it could occur at any moment, as illustrated by its unpredictability. Christie Rowe, Director of the Nevada Seismological Laboratory, emphasized the critical perspective that “this could happen at any time,” whether tomorrow or in hundreds of years.

The implications of such an earthquake are dire, as it would initiate intense ground shaking within the first 30 seconds, particularly affecting regions within a 60-mile radius of the epicenter. Locations situated along the fault line, such as Palm Springs, may experience a staggering intensity of level 9 shaking, classified as ‘violent’ by the United States Geological Survey. Furthermore, if the epicenter were near the Salton Sea, tremors would reach Los Angeles approximately 45 seconds post-initial rupture, escalating to high-intensity shaking at 75 seconds.

Experts assert that violent shaking could persist for over a minute in major urban centers, causing significant infrastructure damage and placing countless lives at risk. As noted by Rowe, “the magnitude of damage is so great that it’s not trivial to prepare for it.” There is a significant need for preparedness in light of this potential catastrophe.

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In conclusion, experts express significant concern regarding an impending mega-earthquake on the West Coast, emphasizing the potential for catastrophic outcomes. The San Andreas fault is overdue for such an event, predicted to occur within the next 30 years. A high magnitude quake could devastate cities, leading to numerous casualties and extensive property damage. Preparing for this eventuality is paramount to mitigate potential disasters.

Original Source: www.dailystar.co.uk