1906 San Francisco Fire/Earthquake
By Kassie and Sidney
Event Description
It happened early morning April 18, 1906 in San Francisco. There was a 40 second shaking and then a pause for 10 seconds. Then, that caused a 25 second longer earthquake that was estimated between 7.8 and 8.3 magnitude. Aftershocks persisted and after a few hours, a fire broke out.
Ecological Impact
The earthquake impacted an area of 300,000 square miles along the San Andres fault. It estimated at $20 million and with additional damage it estimated of about $4 million outside of the city. It destroyed sewer and water pipes, damaged telephone and transportation facilities and railways. It left more than 3,000 dead and 200,000 homeless.
Restoration Efforts
11 million cubic yards of ruined brick and stone walls, twisted steel, and debris of all types had to be removed. Temporary railroad tracks were laid on the key streets throughout the city. It enabled gondolas and ore carts to haul away the heavy chunks of stone, brick and mortar. Horses and wagons also employed in the clearing of the debris. Buildings were rebuilt exactly the way they were before. Much of the city was rebuilt within a year of the devastation.