Echo-sounding method aids earthquake hazard studies

Fact Sheet 132-95
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Abstract

Dramatic examples of catastrophic damage from an earthquake occurred in 1989, when the M 7.1 Lorna Prieta rocked the San Francisco Bay area, and in 1994, when the M 6.6 Northridge earthquake jolted southern California. The surprising amount and distribution of damage to private property and infrastructure emphasizes the importance of seismic-hazard research in urbanized areas, where the potential for damage and loss of life is greatest.


During April 1995, a group of scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey and the University of Tennessee, using an echo-sounding method described below, is collecting data in San Antonio Park, California, to examine the Monte Vista fault which runs through this park. The Monte Vista fault in this vicinity shows evidence of movement within the last 10,000 years or so. The data will give them a "picture" of the subsurface rock deformation near this fault. The data will also be used to help locate a trench that will be dug across the fault by scientists from William Lettis & Associates.

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Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Echo-sounding method aids earthquake hazard studies
Series title Fact Sheet
Series number 132-95
DOI 10.3133/fs13295
Year Published 1995
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Description 1 p.
Country United States
State California
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