Seismic activity in California and the risk of the Big One: analysis of recent earthquakes in the U.S.

The United States constantly experiences a variety of natural phenomena that impact its populations, with earthquakes being among the most significant. Between January 29 and 30, multiple seismic events were recorded across different regions of the country, according to reports from the United States Geological Survey (USGS). These events are particularly important in the context of the San Andreas Fault in California, an area under constant scientific monitoring.

Recorded Earthquakes: An Overview of Recent Activity

In the past 24 hours, the U.S. territory, including Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico, experienced a total of nine earthquakes with magnitudes greater than 2.5. The strongest of these was near Black Eagle, Montana, with a magnitude of 4.2. The epicenter was located eight kilometers from that town, and it occurred on January 29 at 19:41 UTC (12:41 p.m. in Helena).

Geographically, Alaska accounted for a significant portion of the reported seismic activity, while notable movements were also detected on the continental territory, particularly in Colorado, Texas, and New Mexico.

Alaska, Texas, and Colorado: The Epicenters of Highest Seismic Activity

Alaska showed particularly high seismic activity during this period. Earthquakes were recorded near locations such as Akhiok, Happy Valley, Yakutat, Sand Point, Pedro Bay, Akutan, and McCarthy. Magnitudes ranged from 2.6 to 3.7, occurring at different times on January 29 and 30.

In Colorado, notable seismic activity occurred south of Weston and southwest of Segundo, with magnitudes of 2.8 and 2.5, respectively. Texas also experienced several tectonic movements, including epicenters near Stanton, Toyah, and Pearsall, with magnitudes between 2.5 and 2.7.

Other affected states included New Mexico, where a magnitude 3.9 quake was detected 32 kilometers north of Cimarron, and Oregon, with a 3.5 magnitude tremor located 259 kilometers southwest of Pistol River. Puerto Rico also experienced significant seismic activity, with a magnitude 3.1 event near Maricao and another of 3.3 located 133 kilometers northeast of Vieques.

The San Andreas Fault and the “Big One” Phenomenon

The San Andreas Fault is a fundamental geological feature in California, extending approximately 1,300 kilometers across the state. This fault marks the boundary between the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate, generating constant seismic activity that remains under ongoing scientific surveillance.

Seismologists warn about the possibility of an extraordinarily large earthquake known as the “Big One.” This quake, with a magnitude of 8 or higher, could cause widespread devastation across large geographic areas, especially in densely populated urban centers like Los Angeles and San Francisco.

California’s historical record includes major seismic events that serve as references. The great San Francisco earthquake of 1906 reached a magnitude of 7.8, while the Fort Tejon earthquake of 1857 registered a magnitude of 7.9. These historical events highlight the destructive potential of seismic movements in the region.

Preparation and Preventive Measures Against the Seismic Threat

In light of the potential for new significant tremors in California and the eventual occurrence of the “Big One,” authorities conduct regular drills and review safety protocols. These measures include public awareness programs aimed at educating the population on appropriate actions before, during, and after an earthquake, fostering a culture of disaster preparedness.