Scientists Warn of Massive California Earthquake That Could Hit Anytime; Here's How You Can Be Prepared

Scientists on Thursday warned for an upcoming California earthquake with the strength compared to hundreds of atomic bombs that can hit the state at any moment.

According to a United States Geological Survey (USGS), the Hayward fault line is located in San Francisco Bay Area and can rattle the area with the strength of magnitude of 7.0, The Sun reported.

The study claimed that a "real earthquake on the Hayward fault could occur at any time and may behave quite differently."

Earthquake Engineering Expert Keith Porter seconded the USGS study. In an interview with USA Today, he claimed that the California earthquake "could happen tomorrow," per Patch.

"We don't know when... [But] it will happen," Porter added.

Experts believe that the Hayward Fault could see tremors in the next 30 years.

According to reports, the Hayward fault experiences quakes for every 100 to 220 years. The last one reportedly occurred over 154 years, which was in 1868.

During that time, Patch mentioned that the shaking was felt as far away as Nevada, and aftershocks were in the Bay Area weeks after the initial jolt. Furthermore, almost every building in Hayward sustained severe damage.

Study Predicts California Earthquake Will Leave Hundreds Dead, Thousands Injured

The USGS study also provided a hypothetical scenario aside from giving an earthquake warning that could hit California's Bay Area at any moment.

The hypothetical scenario was set on April 18, 2018, with the quake starting at around 4:19 p.m., with Oakland as its epicenter.

The study claimed the rupture could reach up to 52 miles along the fault towards Fremont and Richmond with a speed of 7,000 mph.

In the model, at least 800 people were predicted to die, and around 18,000 individuals were injured. Around 2,500 would need to be rescued from collapsed buildings, while another 22,000 would be trapped in elevators. In addition, 77,000 to 152,000 could be displaced, according to the model provided by the USGS study.

Monetary losses were expected to be around $82 billion due to shaking, while $30 billion was attributed to fires.

Experts lauded the study provided by the USGS, saying that the warning gives a chance to envision the vulnerabilities and a chance to prepare for the quake.

"Acting now can save lives and jobs, business, neighborhoods, and homes," experts added per The Sun.

Earthquake Warning on Bay Area: How to Prepare on the Upcoming Quake?

While the exact date and time of earthquakes cannot be predicted, it is important to be ready.

According to NBC Bay Area, preparation for an earthquake should include securing the space, creating a disaster plan, organizing the disaster supplies. Considering earthquake insurance could also help people prepare for the California earthquake.

In addition, a first aid kit that includes cash, clothing, blanket, crank-style flashlight, battery-operated radio, and water should also be prepared. Other items, such as feet and hand warmers, nonperishable foods, rope, and multi-use knife, must also be added.

During an earthquake, the practice of duck, cover, and hold, will save one's life. Paying attention to the coast if the residence is located near the sea should also be done, as an earthquake can trigger a tsunami. Once the shaking stops, affected residents should evacuate their homes.

After an earthquake, checking one's home should be done when it is safe. Gas leaks, water pipes, chemical spills, and electrical wires should be checked to secure one's residence.

This article is owned by Latin Post

Written By: Joshua Summers

WATCH: Fly Over the Hayward Fault and See How Close You are to it - From ABC7 News Bay Area