New study says the “Big One” is overdue.

By Jonathan Tamayo

Missing Call Letters

The recent temblors that have hit the Los Angeles area the last couple of weeks have prompted some researchers to take a closer look at the San Andreas fault line for any new signs of the “big one.”

So brace yourselves, a new study has found that large earthquakes have rumbled along the southern section of the fault more frequently than previous years, suggesting a stronger earthquake may on its way.  

Scientists at UC Irvine have found major earthquakes occurred roughly every 137 years over the last 700 years around the Carrizo Plain section of the San Andreas. 

Until now, scientists believed powerful earthquakes occurred around every 200 years, not 137 years as the new study suggests.  

The biggest earthquake to hit Southern California in modern times was at the Fort Tejon quake. The quake was a 7.9 and occurred in 1857. It doesn’t take a mathematician to calculate that was over 150 years ago. So if this new study holds true, the “Big One” is overdue.

This southern portion of the San Andreas where the scientists gathered their data is where the Fort Tejon quake took place, and is also the area researchers have predicted for decades that the “Big One” will occur.

The study will officially be published next week and you can find more info on an LA Times article here. 

Safety Tips

So instead of diving into how the scientists made their conclusion, I thought it’d be better to refresh your earthquake safety skills. I haven’t had an earthquake safety drill probably since 5th grade so it’s not a bad idea.  If the Big One is coming, we (and your kids) might as well be prepared. 

Inside - Let’s start with the basic techniques of duck and cover. If you’re indoors duck or drop down to the floor.  Find cover under a sturdy desk, table, or other furniture, cover your head with one hand,  and hold on to it with the other.

Be prepared to move with it too. Stay in that position until the ground stops shaking and its safe to move. Make sure to stay clear of windows, fireplaces, wood stoves, and heavy furniture or appliances that may fall. 

Outside – If you’re outside during the quake, find a clear area away from any tall buildings or anything that can fall on you. Look out for power lines too. No one likes getting electrocuted.

Driving – If your driving stop if it is safe and try to avoid any bridges, overpasses, tunnels, trees, light posts, power lines, etc. Move your car as far out of the normal traffic pattern as possible and stay in your vehicle. 

Mountains – If you’re in a mountainous area look out for unstable slopes and cliffs; be alert for falling rocks and other debris that may be headed your way.

Beach – If you’re at the beach, move towards higher ground. Some areas in Southern California now have Tsunami warning signs. No joke, it’s possible.  You can read more about it here. 

Also, don’t forget to have an evacuation plan and store enough food and water for your family.

FEMA recommends you keep at least 1 gallon of water per person per day and prepare for a 72-hour period. 

Keep a supply of non-perishable food on hand like dehydrated food, powdered milk, and canned juices.  Spam, tuna dried cereals and fruits, and non-salted nuts are good for storage and nutrition as well. 

Other things to have handy: a flashlight, can opener, batteries, first-aid kit, fire extinguishers, medicines, important documents, and a change of clothes. 

You can find a more detailed list of essentials and safety tips from FEMA here.