In some areas, the ground could sink six feet shortly after an earthquake in the Pacific Northwest, researchers warned.
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The nightmare scenario in the Pacific Northwest has earned a dramatic update.
Researchers have long warned that Oregon and Washington coastal areas can kill thousands, crush important bridges, destroy submarine communication cables, and create extremely powerful earthquakes that could potentially produce tsunamis. According to a 2013 analysis, this is a “possible to happen at any time” disaster scenario.
The new report, released by the minutes of the National Academy of Sciences on April 28, highlights one risk in particular. It is coastal ground that drops rapidly and causes near-instant flood risk.
This phenomenon, known as “sudden coastal subsidence,” can occur at the moment of a large earthquake. In some areas, the ground could sink six feet, researchers warned. (A similar situation unfolded in the 1964 earthquake in Alaska, a previous report published by the US Geological Survey.)
The researchers have drawn a stern picture of what will happen in Notewest, the Pacific Ocean. “Along the coasts of Washington, Oregon and Northern California, the next large Cascadia subduction zone earthquake can cause sudden coastal subsidence of up to 2m, dramatically increasing the sea level and increase the risk of flooding to local communication.
The report highlights how climate change increases the risk of such earthquake-induced flooding over time.
But for those accustomed to the constant, looming threat of a major earthquake, the relatively low probability of such a disastrous scenario may be a small comfort. The study states that there is a 15% chance of such an earthquake over the next 50 years. (On the other hand, the USGS estimates that a tragic earthquake in California is more likely.)
How to prepare for an earthquake disaster
As stated in a 2022 USA Today report, the massive earthquake has long been an existential crisis for millions along the West Coast. But experts said there are things that can be done to help people prepare for a major disaster.
First, you need at least a flashlight and a way to charge your phone. And you need to prepare to shut off electricity and water for days or weeks.
Here are some practical tips:
- When you are trying to use your mobile phone, do not text – call. In disasters, text messages are more reliable and there are fewer cell networks.
- To power your phone, you can buy a weathered radio, flashlight, and hand crank charger cheaply and keep the cell running without power for days.
- Seismicologist Lucy Jones said before. You’ll want to be able to buy things even if your credit card doesn’t work for a while.
- Easy things like securing a bookshelves can save lives. Downloading the Early Warning App will give you precious moments to protect yourself in the event of a major earthquake. Buying earthquake insurance will help protect your homeowners. And taking part in the annual drills can help remind you of other simple steps you can take to prepare.
But perhaps the most important tip from an expert: get to know your neighbors now. It’s not just a great idea. In the event of an emergency, strong community ties can become a literal lifeline.