Earthquakes, Part one
Earthquakes are
one of Natures most common events, and there are approximately 8000 recorded
earthquakes around the world every day. An earthquake is a sudden slipping or
movement of a portion of the earths crust, caused by a sudden release of stress
usually less than 25 miles below the surface.
During the period of time between May 2, 2005 and October 26, 2005 there have been 154 Quakes along the New Madrid Fault zone area. Until this
reported time, in the past, there was an average of 20 Quakes per year; however this average has changed to 30. Most
earthquakes that occur in Arkansas
are gentle reminders of the activity going on beneath the surface. However, in Northeast
Arkansas where the southern tip of the New Madrid Fault is located,
the potential for a devastating earthquake exist everyday. There are
approximately four million people that live along the New Madrid Fault that are
at great risk. (see part 2 for additional information
on people at risk) Even if you do not live near the New Madrid Fault it is
essential that you prepare for an earthquake. Small scattered earthquakes have
occurred in all but 24 Counties in the State of Arkansas.
(see earthquakes at www.adem.state.ar.us).
The highest earthquake risk in the United
States, outside of the west coast, is along
the New Madrid Fault Zone. Damaging tremors are not as frequent as on the west
coast, but, due to the unconsolidated soil conditions and other geology, when an
earthquake does occur the destruction will cover 20 times more area. The
magnitude 4.1 earthquake that occurred on May 1, 2005, 15 miles WSW of Blytheville, Arkansas was
reported as felt in El Dorado, Arkansas.
Hypothetically, lets say the BIG
one hits Northeast Arkansas and sever damage and power
outages have been reported as far as 250 to 350 miles out from the epicenter.
Are you prepared to be self sufficient? Is your family? Your
neighborhood? For at least 72 hours? Below is a list of fourteen things
for individual and family preparedness:
-
Know
the safe spots in each room of your home or office. ie, under sturdy tables or desk, and against
inside walls.
-
Know
the danger spots. Ie, windows, hanging objects,
fireplaces, tall furniture.
-
Conduct
practice drills.
-
Develop
a family plan of action.
-
If
outside, stay away from, tall buildings, tall signs, hazardous products,
power lines, bridges and overpasses, etc.
-
Learn
how to shut the gas, water and electricity off at the meters.
-
Check
chimneys, roofs and wall foundations for stability.
-
Secure
water heaters, stoves, washers, dryers and heaters.
-
Secure
heavy pictures, mirrors etc. that are hung on walls.(especially
over beds and sofas).
-
Put
latches on cabinet doors to keep them closed during shaking.
-
Keep
all flammable or hazardous liquid, pesticides, paint and cleaning products
in secured cabinets.
-
Maintain
emergency food, water and other supplies, including medicine, first aid
kit and clothing.
-
Organize
a neighborhood preparedness program.(FEMA has an
excellent one on their web site).
-
Identify
neighbors who have special needs or will require special assistance.
Of interest Now, I’ve heard people in the past and also
recently say that the smaller earthquakes are letting off steam and keeping the
BIG one away. This is a myth and not true! Moderate earthquakes may actually be
precursors of larger earthquakes.
This material may be copied
and freely distributed as long as no money is derived from its use! If you do
make money from any of this, send me half.
Written by Tom Harris, k5wth
10-30-2005