New Maps Show Broad Range of Earthquake Risk in U.S.

Posted by: Nate Berg

26 April 2008 - 1:00pm

New earthquake hazard maps from the U.S. Geological Survey show increased earthquake risk areas beyond typical hotspots like California. Geologists say planners and local officials should react to the maps by updating building codes.

"The maps by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reflect the discovery of more earthquake faults in California, a new 7.4-magnitude-quake risk in Utah, as well as more ways to rock the Midwest, South Carolina and the Pacific Northwest than you can shake a stick at."

"Unlike last week's forecast of possible ruptures along faults in California, the National Seismic Hazard Maps calculate the likely intensity of shaking at any given location -- caused by any regional fault giving way -- over a period of 50 years."

"As a result, the new maps are vital for updating local building codes and a direct response to the old geologist truism: Earthquakes don't kill people, buildings kill people."

Full Story: Shaky U.S. Grounds Revealed in New Maps

Source: Discovery, April 23, 2008