Ok Oregon, you asked so we’re answering your #QuakeQuestions from Monday. If you’re not already following @OregonOEM or @PNSN1 be sure to do so as they are your go-to's for local info about emergencies and earthquakes in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest.
What’s the deal with earthquakes in Oregon? As many of you mentioned in Monday's #QuakeQuestions post, this region of the U.S. is capable of hosting very large (M9!) earthquakes along the #Cascadia subduction zone where the Pacific plate slides beneath the North American plate.
How do we know such large earthquakes are possible? Check out this thread to learn more about the 1700 M9 Cascadia earthquake – the largest known earthquake to have occurred in the conterminous U.S.
The @USGS has developed earthquake scenarios to simulate how an M9 earthquake would shake the Pacific Northwest in modern times. These scenarios help us examine the exposure of structures, lifelines, utilities, & transportation corridors to potential earthquakes.
Speaking of structures, though @USGS doesn’t implement building codes or retrofits, our science and hazards maps ARE used to inform these types of preventive measures that help protect people and infrastructure from the hazards of earthquake shaking. usgs.gov/programs/earth…
According to @OregonOEM, the two most common types of retrofitting are bolting the house (mudsill) to the foundation and reinforcing the cripple walls (aka “pony” walls) with plywood sheathing. oregon.gov/CCB/homeowner/…
.@FEMA and @Readygov's QuakeSmart program can also help businesses identify and address their seismic risks through retrofitting and other earthquake mitigation activities.
fema.gov/emergency-mana…
ready.gov/sites/default/…
Tsunamis are possible along the OR (& entire U.S. west) coast from earthquakes near & far. Tsunami messages are issued by Tsunami Warning Centers like @NWS_NTWC & may come through outdoor sirens, local officials, text message alerts & phone notifications. ow.ly/u1Ow50JWiQb
#DYK OR, CA & WA, are now powered by the @USGS_ShakeAlert earthquake early warning system? With ShakeAlert you can receive messages about EQ shaking on your phone before it arrives at your location, giving you time to drop, cover, and hold on. Learn more: ow.ly/6k2y50JWiYv
Thanks to @NWSPortland for retweeting our #QuakeQuestions tweet on Monday! We plan on answering more questions over the next couple weeks. Want more info on OR earthquakes, tsunamis & preparedness? Visit the @OregonOEM hazards & preparedness page ow.ly/475m50JWj42
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