Earthquake!

In writing this piece I could have concentrated on the destruction of the greatest quakes.

Initially, I thought about listing the major earthquakes in some kind of ranking, which ultimately would only prove to be subjective.

However, instead I will structure this article to concentrate on not only the catastrophic aspects of large earthquakes, but also give comprehensive information which includes preparedness and seismic facts.

It is true that pictures of mass destruction might provide a motivation to be prepared. But mostly what would the reader learn if this was simply a pictorial?

The reader might know specific facts and bits of trivia. But would they know how to survive an earthquake?

In this article I have provided pictures, links to videos, resources and knowledge to help all readers to be prepared for the next “big one.”

The world is constantly changing and it has for millions of years. Earthquakes have been the catalyst for these changes. Earthquakes are caused by pieces of rock that are called tectonic plates. Tectonic plates can be compared to pieces of a jigsaw puzzle that cover the surface of the earth. Tectonic plates make up the surface of the earth and when they move the ground shakes. Earthquakes are most likely to occur in the area around the Pacific Rim, but they can and do occur all over the earth. Statistically, the Pacific Rim area has 90% of the world’s earthquakes. The earth shakes roughly half a million times a year. Only about 100,000 quakes a year are felt and less then 100 earthquakes a year cause any damage. Approximately 10,000 quakes below 4.0 on the Richter scale hit Southern California every year.

In 1964, an earthquake with the magnitude of 9.2 hit Alaska. This was the largest quake to date in the United States. The state of Alaska has the most earthquakes. The largest mountain ranges in the world were created by earthquakes and the movement of tectonic plates. In 15 million years, Los Angeles and San Francisco will be much closer in distance thanks to the motion of the San Andres Fault that runs along the state of California.

Global Plate Motion

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The San Andreas Fault Line

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During a mild earthquake some shaking is felt. The swaying of pictures and rattling of dishes in cabinets also will occur. It is possible that a few things might topple over and most likely no one will be injured.

However in an earthquake at a stronger seismic level people can literally be thrown from their position. There will be noticeable cracks that appear in the ground. Bridges, buildings and homes may even collapse. Windows will be shattered and glass will be everywhere. Water pipes can burst and electrical wires can even snap.

If water pipes burst then there will be no water available to drink. Any utility wires that snap increase the likelihood of fire. Pipes which carry natural gas and other chemicals can also start fires.

Outstanding Live Video Links

This link from You Tube shows live footage of major recent quakes in Japan, China and other places around the world.

This link shows three areas during an earthquake. Two of the settings are in offices and show employees reacting and running for cover. One of the videos gives a live shot of a busy port during the shaking.

This link from National Geographic shows film footage in a variety of natural disasters including spectacular footage of earthquakes as they occur.

This link is an up to the minute coverage and reporting of recent earthquakes in Greece and China. This link also explores the human impact from earthquakes.

Unlike hurricanes and tornadoes, scientists have determined that earthquakes occurrences are not related to weather conditions. There are no earthquake seasons when the tectonic plates are more likely to move.

Measuring an Earthquake

A seismometer measures the vibrations in the ground. A visual record is produced on a machine called a “seismograph” Another type of scale that a measures quake is called a “Richter scale.” It measure the seismic energy released from the ground during an earthquake. It tracks the local magnitude of an earthquake.

Earthquakes below 2.5 on the Richter scale are usually not even felt. Earthquakes at around 3.5 at felt by many people. A quake that shakes at 4.5 may cause some mild damage. A destructive quake will register at 6.0, a major quake at 7.0 and a great earthquake at 8.0 and higher. An earthquake that registers 6.0 is ten times stronger than one that registers 5.0 on the Richter scale.

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A seismograph provides a visual aid to scientists.

Bay Area, 1989

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This is a picture of a collapsed freeway in the 1989, “World Series” earthquake in San Francisco, California.

Northridge, California, 1994

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This is a picture of a Kaiser Permanente building in 1994 after the Northridge quake. I felt this particular quake and it was a long rolling sensation.

Mexico City, Mexico, 1985

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Mexico City, Mexico after the 1985 quake.

Kobe, Japan, 1995

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Kobe, Japan in 1995.

Earthquakes can cause landslides, avalanches and tsumamis. Earthquakes are always followed by aftershock quakes that are generally smaller in size but can continue to cause damage to structures still standing after the initial quake.

Billions and billions of dollars of property can be destroyed in only a few minutes of a strong earthquake. But the greatest cost is the loss of human life.

Buildings can and have been rebuilt but ongoing research is being conducted to keep buildings from toppling and therefore saving human life during a strong tremor.

Tsunami, 2004

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Tsunami video after the quake 2004.

How to Survive an Earthquake

1. Have an earthquake disaster plan that you have communicated with family members. Talk about what to do if you and your family are home and what to do if you and your family are at school and work.
2. Once the shaking starts get under a doorway or desk and cover your face and the back of your neck. Don’t rush the doors and create panic. Stay as calm as possible.
3. Newer buildings in the United States have strict codes and earthquake designs that must be followed which allow for the building to sway in the event of an earthquake. In the 1989 quake in San Francisco, the 50 story TransAmerica building was designed in such a way that it was not damaged. So newer buildings generally are built to withstand a quake in earthquake zones.
4. Be prepared at home for a quake by packing an earthquake kit that includes 3 days worth of water for each member of your family, first aid kit, food, transistor radio, batteries, flashlights, tools for turning off gas, shoes, dust masks, water purification tablets, clothing and blankets in case you can’t go into your home right away. Camping gear such as sleeping bags and tents may also prove invaluable. Here are some survival kit links:

• Quake Kare
• The Global Earthquake Response Center
• Survival Suppliers
• EarthquakeNews

These links will give you an idea as to what you will can either purchase or make on your own. A large plastic bin with a sealed cover works well for storage.

The last link provides valuable comprehensive information on how to make your own emergency/disaster/earthquake kit. I highly recommend this site!

1. After the shaking ceases, you will need to evacuate the building. Debris will be everywhere and so will live electrical wires. Your cell phone will most likely not work and once outside debris will likely be still falling.
2. At home keep working flashlights in a drawer by your bed and a pair of tennis shoes as well. Many quakes occur in the middle of the night and you will need a flashlight and shoes to escape safely.
3. Move towards an area that is clear from falling debris. A park or cleared area might be a good choice. If you are downtown, get down under something and wait for help.
4. If you hear a “hissing” sound this might mean that gas is leaking and you need to exit the building or home immediately
5. Make sure you are wearing shoes as you exit, as glass and debris will be dangerous and all over the ground
6. Be prepared to take cover again as aftershocks always follow any quake and there could be continued damage to weakened structures

After the Quake

Most quakes last less than 15 seconds and then the rescue crews hit the streets to help victims. The police, army, navy and other military personnel will be called upon to help in the rescue effort. Schools will have first priority in the event of needed rescue.

Groups like the Red Cross will provide blankets, food, water and a play to stay for victims who are homeless or unable to enter their residences. Specially trained enforcement from neighboring cities and countries will assist victims. Helicopters and even specially trained dogs will all assist in the effort to find victims.

The worst problem after a major disaster or earthquake is the threat of disease.

The living conditions quickly decline and water is unsafe to drink until it is purified.

There will be no gas, electricity or plumbing even if victims are allowed to return to their homes.

So, be prepared, don’t panic and be patient!

Our Future Preparedness

Seismologists are constantly studying recent earthquakes activity. Their goal is to try to predict the likelihood of a quake striking again in a certain area so residents can be warned ahead of the tremor. Seismologists record and chart the activity of quakes and try to track when the next one might occur. For example if every 100 years a quake occurs in a particular area, the seismologist will try to estimate the odds of it striking again in that same geographical region.

Civil engineers and building designers have made great strides in creating stronger structures that can withstand and most importantly “give” or “sway” with the moving earth.

I have experienced several earthquakes living in California. Some earthquakes “jolt” suddenly and others “sway”. Building designers are perfecting structures that will withstand a quake and prevent loss of life.

As long as you live somewhere on this planet you are not immune to earthquakes

although the chance of earthquakes is far greater along the Pacific Rim. However, natural disasters whether hurricanes, tornadoes or earthquakes sometimes occur wherever people live. But no matter where you live the best defense is always preparation!