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California, sitting on the edge of several fault lines, experiences hundreds of earthquakes each year. While most of these tremors are minor, they serve as a reminder of the ever-present risk posed by the state’s seismic activity. Among the most infamous earthquakes in California's history are the Fort Tejon quake in 1857 and the devastating 1906 San Francisco earthquake, which claimed thousands of lives. In more recent years, the 2019 Ridgecrest earthquake, though less catastrophic, was a stark reminder that these natural disasters are far from a thing of the past.
The California Department of Conservation notes that the strongest earthquake ever recorded in the state was the Fort Tejon quake, measuring 7.9 in magnitude. It caused widespread destruction but, fortunately, resulted in fewer casualties than later quakes. The 1906 earthquake that ravaged San Francisco, however, brought unparalleled devastation, not only because of the tremor itself but due to the fires that followed. These two events, among others, cemented California's place as one of the most seismically active regions in the U.S., second only to Alaska in the number of earthquakes recorded annually.
The sheer number of active faults in California—over 500—means that virtually no resident is untouched by the potential threat. Most Californians live within 30 miles of an active fault, the most notorious of which is the San Andreas Fault. The San Andreas is a vast fault line stretching roughly 800 miles across the state, and its shifting plates are responsible for many of the most significant earthquakes California has experienced.
How to Stay Safe During an Earthquake
Given the unpredictable nature of earthquakes, it’s vital for Californians to be prepared. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) emphasizes the importance of knowing what to do when the ground starts to shake. Their advice is simple but effective: "Drop, Cover, and Hold On."
Drop: At the first sign of shaking, drop down to your hands and knees. This position prevents you from being knocked over and allows you to move if necessary.
Cover: Protect your head and neck with one arm and, if possible, seek shelter under a sturdy piece of furniture. If no cover is available, get close to an interior wall, avoiding windows.
Hold On: If you’ve found shelter, hold on to it until the shaking stops. Earthquakes can shift furniture, and being able to move with your cover is essential for maintaining protection.
It’s equally important to remain in place until the shaking ceases. Most injuries during earthquakes occur when people attempt to move during the tremor. If you're inside, avoid doorways, windows, and exterior walls. If you're outside, move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and utility wires. For those in vehicles, it’s best to pull over and stay inside until the earthquake is over.
In public spaces, like stores or theaters, it’s natural to feel the urge to rush for the exits. However, this can increase your risk of injury. Instead, drop, cover, and hold on, moving away from shelves and other items that could fall.
After the Shaking Stops
The moments after an earthquake can be equally dangerous. Aftershocks—smaller tremors that follow the main quake—can cause further damage, especially to already weakened structures. Be sure to check yourself and others for injuries, and be cautious when inspecting your surroundings for damage. Fires, gas leaks, and structural damage are common post-earthquake hazards.
Preparedness is key to surviving and minimizing the damage from an earthquake. By staying informed and having a plan, Californians can face the threat of earthquakes with resilience, no matter how unpredictable these natural events may be.
Though the history of earthquakes in California is long and, at times, tragic, it's also a testament to the importance of preparedness and community resilience in the face of natural disasters.
Source: KTLA
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