Disaster Earthquake!
San Fransisco, CA 1906
General Info
What causes it? Tectonic plates rubbing together under the Earth's crust
Where do they occur? Most earthquakes occur along the edge of the oceanic and continental plates.
Can it be predicted? How? Laser beams can be used to detect plate movement. A seismometer is used to pick up the vibrations in the Earth's crust.
How can we prevent people from dying? Reinforce tall buildings with steel bars to make it more secure so that it wont fall down as easily. Get to a safe area that is sturdy and will not easily collapse.
What can you do in your own home to prepare? In each room of your home identify a safe place where you can drop and cover yourself. List addresses, telephone numbers, and evacuation sites for all places frequented by family members, always keep in contact.
Specific Event
Where did it happen? San Francisco, California
3 facts from disaster: Congress stopped letting stores sell alcohol for a little while because they didn't want another fire to start. The survivors slept in tents in city parks. It is considered one of the worst natural disasters in U.S. history.
What was the cause of this disaster? The rupturing of the northernmost 296 miles of the 800-mile San Andreas fault.
Death Toll: The death toll is uncertain. Estimates were at about 700, but modern calculations say about 3,000.
Describe Damages: Fires immediately broke out, numerous building toppled to the ground, killing hundreds. Building were shaken down, the fire raged on for 4 days straight.