Earthquake hits Japan, reminds Californians to be prepared
A major earthquake in Japan is serving as another important reminder in the Coachella Valley. A 6.9 magnitude earthquake hit the Japanese coast near Fukushima Monday afternoon our time. The earthquake left the country under a tsunami warning which was later lifted. Seismologists say earthquakes like this one should serve as a wake-up call.
The Associated Press reported Monday’s earthquakes were an aftershock of the earthquakes that happened in the same area of Japan in 2011.
“It has created a local tsunami that appears something like a couple of feet going in at Fukushima Japan but there’s just not enough water there to create a wave that will cross the ocean,” said CalTech Seismologist Dr. Lucy Jones.
Local geologist Dr. Nancy Moll says a similar earthquake, up to an 8.0 magnitude, could happen in the Coachella Valley at any time.
“We know the plates are continuing to move and so we’ve got somewhere between 600 to 900 centimeters worth of strain built up,” said College of the Desert professor and geologist Dr. Nancy Moll.
Seismologist Dr. Lucy Jones says the big quake will most likely be around magnitude 7.5.
Doctor Moll says that could cause landslides and major destruction in the area.
“Since the San Andreas fault starts at Bombay Beach, runs around the north part of the valley and parallels with the I-10, it will if it moves chop off the I-10,” Dr. Moll said.
A real and constant threat. Some local residents say they’re prepared.
“We’re kind of expecting it, waiting for it to happen but at the same time go on with your day to day life. Stay prepared at home and have what you need,” said Palm Desert resident Chris Scott.
Dr. Moll says the next major earthquake could last anywhere from 30 to 40 seconds, a short amount of time to cause major damage.
Geologist Dr. Moll says people should pack kits with essentials like food, water and first aid supplies that way when the next shake happens, you’ll be prepared to stick it out.
Stay prepared with more information about earthquake safety and preparedness.
