USGS Completes Groundbreaking San Francisco Bay Earthquake Study
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) recently released a new earthquake study, specifically focused on the effects of a hypothetical scenario involving a magnitude 7.0 quake around the Hayward Fault that runs along the San Francisco Bay area. The Hayward Fault is said to be among the most active and dangerous in the U.S.
The study covers all aspects of a major Hayward Fault earthquake, including the initial ground shaking (mainshock), aftershocks, and tertiary effects like flooding, mudslides, fires, water supply interruption, and even liquification of soils.
Goal of the USGS Earthquake Study
The goal of the USGS earthquake study, as always, is to improve emergency preparedness and improve resilience. By understanding what could happen in the event of a major earthquake along the Hayward Fault, local communities can improve emergency plans, communication protocols, forecasting models, search and rescue procedures, and even building codes.
How Utilities Can Benefit from the Earthquake Study
Earthquakes are clearly a thorn in the side of utilities across all sectors, because they can cause severe damage to power plants, gas pipelines, water mains, telecom infrastructure, and fiber-optic cables, so any improvement in preparedness is hugely important. Cooperation across all utility sectors and stakeholders is critical when the you-know-what hits the fan.
If the local communities incorporate the learnings from the USGS study, utility companies stand to benefit. Not only can utilities in the areas incorporate the learnings into their own emergency plans, but they can also enjoy (in theory) improved communication and coordination with local municipalities because of their improved preparedness. Definitely a win-win for all.
