Earthquake / Engineering
Is the U.S. Ready for an 8.8?
It depends on where it occurs in the U.S., and how "ready" we need to be.
Since the mid-1800s, earthquakes in California have led to the development of advanced design and construction standards, effective emergency response procedures, and a clear understanding of the region's seismology. The latest refinements in design and construction, coming after the 1971 San Fernando, 1989 Loma Prieta and 1994 Northridge earthquakes, direct the construction of buildings that will protect their occupants and allow emergency response facilities (such ...