This Week in CQ Researcher

Earthquake Threat
by Thomas J. Billitteri, April 9, 2010

Is the U.S. ready for a seismic catastrophe?

The earthquakes that ravaged Haiti and Chile this year raised compelling questions about the ability of the United States to cope with a seismic catastrophe of its own. Thirty-nine states, from Alaska and California to the Carolinas and New England, are considered susceptible to moderate or severe quakes, and the Midwest is widely viewed as among the most vulnerable regions. In California, the U.S. Geological Survey puts the probability of a magnitude 6.7 or larger quake within the next 30 years at more than 99 percent. Should a magnitude 6.5 quake hit Manhattan, which sits on ancient faults, damage could total well over $1 trillion. Officials say the United States is making progress at mitigating potential death and destruction from future earthquakes but has a long way to go. In developing countries, scores of cities – overcrowded, poorly built and many sitting on seismic faults – remain highly vulnerable.

• Are Americans prepared for a catastrophic earthquake?
  
• Is a catastrophic earthquake likely in the United States?
  
• Should development occur along earthquake faults?

To read this article and others visit our Articles and Databases webpage and click on CQ Researcher. Select the Off Campus Access link for information on how to access this resource from off campus locations.