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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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:
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!
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- If you hear a “hissing” sound this might mean that gas is leaking and you need to exit the building or home immediately
- Make sure you are wearing shoes as you exit, as glass and debris will be dangerous and all over the ground
- 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!
