OPTIMUM SEISMIC, INC.
NOVEMBER 2022 NEWSLETTER
Ali Sahabi, GEC
Principal,
Optimum Seismic, Inc.
Anniversary of Loma Prieta earthquake a stark reminder of our vulnerabilities
We recently observed the 33rd anniversary of the deadly Loma Prieta earthquake, a 6.9-magnitude disaster that killed 60 people and injured more than 3,000 others. More than 20,000 homes and businesses were damaged and 1,100 destroyed on Oct. 17, 1989. We can’t predict where or when our next big quake will strike, so we need to prepare.
The good news is San Francisco, Santa Cruz and other regions devastated by the quake have rebuilt strong and more resilient than before.
If you think your property is at risk, call us at 833 978-7664 for a complimentary consultation.
Bay Area marks Loma Prieta quake anniversary
On Oct. 17, 1989, the Loma Prieta Earthquake shook the Bay Area, killing more than 60, injuring 3,000 others, and causing billions of dollars in damage to the region. “It was a shock to the Bay Area, said USGS geologist David recent alert reached 2.1 million people.
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L.A. reports 8,000 retrofits completed, more to do
Seven years into Los Angeles’ landmark earthquake safety campaign, more than 8,000 seismically vulnerable soft-story buildings have been retrofitted. Experts report every dollar spent on seismic retrofits will save $32 in losses. The improvements mark the biggest advance in seismic upgrades in decades
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Alert goes to 2 million prior to Bay Area earthquake
Many Bay Area residents recently received early warnings before being shaken by a magnitude 5.1 quake. It was the second time in six weeks that residents got a warning before a large quake. The most recent alert reached 2.1 million people.
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Rats trained to search out survivors in disaster zones
Natural disasters like earthquakes and hurricanes can level entire towns, and for the search and rescue teams trying to find survivors, it’s a painstaking task. But an unlikely hero is being trained to help: rats. A project in Belgium is fitting rodents with high-tech backpacks to find survivors among rubble in disaster zones.
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Research supports building renovations
Is it economically and environmentally more viable to extend the life of an existing building through renovation — or to demolish it, dispose of it, and rebuild? Researcher Peter Bullen asked building owners that question and found 83% felt it was more preferable to adapt rather than demolish — leaving a positive impact of sustainability on the built environment.
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Mauna Loa volcano shaken by 50 quakes daily
Hawaii’s Mauna Loa volcano is showing signs that it may erupt, and residents have been advised to prepare for possible evacuations. More than 50 earthquakes a day are being detected at the location, and state officials are bracing for “some kind of lava disaster.”
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Hurricane-proof town’s resilient development plan
Anthony Grande of Florida wanted a new home where developers prioritized climate resiliency in a state vulnerable to record-breaking storm surges and historic rainfall. He found it at Babcock Ranch, just 12 miles northeast of Fort Myers. Built with resilience in mind, it experienced no real problems with Hurricane Ian.
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Italy marks 20th anniversary of deadly Molise earthquakes
Italy has marked the 20th anniversary of deadly earthquakes that hit the regions of Molise and Puglia in 2002.
A total of 27 children and their teacher died at the Francesco Jovine school after a 6.0 magnitude tremor hit the town on October 31.
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