Escape a Quake? What’s the Fate?
With high magnitude earthquakes shaking up the East Coast, folks west of the Rockies are wondering when the next quake will strike the Bay Area.
Here in the West Coast, we sit, stand, walk and ride along an active fault line. Many seismic events over a 2.0 magnitude happen around the area more often than we think. But when will the next big one strike? What areas in the city are worse than others if a big one does strike? What are you supposed to do during an earthquake? Have no fear! Here are some quick-quake facts to prep for the next 1906 Kahuna-size quake.
Historically speaking, four 6.8 or larger earthquakes have occurred in the Bay area between 1836 and 1911. No quakes of magnitude 6 or higher occurred for the next 68 years. However, between 1979 and 1989, there were four magnitude 6 or greater quakes. This leads scientists to believe (with a 67% probability) that a 6.8 magnitude or greater quake will occur in the next 30 years.
The most likely areas affected by an intense earthquake are concentrated on top of man-made landfills or areas that were once submerged by the bay floor. That include the Marina District, North Beach following east along the waterfront to Bayview, the Financial District, and the northern area of the Mission District.
What should you do during an earthquake if you’re indoors? Get under a desk or table, or stand against an interior wall. Don’t run outside. Speaking of the outdoors, if you’re out in nature, get out in the open staying away from buildings or power lines. If you’re driving behind the wheel, move out of traffic and stop. Avoid parking under bridges or overpasses. Relax and breathe deep.
Photo Credit: Laughing Squid
