Is the Cascadia subduction zone a major seismic threat to the Pacific Northwest?

  • Thread starter davenn
  • Start date
In summary, there was a prelim report of a M 7.5 earthquake in the Santa Cruz Is region, with a depth of 33 kilometres and located 75 kilometres west of Lata and 587 kilometres east of Honiara. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre has stated that the threat of hazardous waves has mostly passed. There was a seismogram of the event saved before it overwrote itself. There have been multiple studies done on the Cascadia subduction zone, with ongoing research being conducted by institutions in the Pacific NW region. It has been the cause of large historic events and there is a likelihood of more big events in the future, although the timing and magnitude are difficult to predict.
  • #1
davenn
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http://www.radionz.co.nz/internatio...-6-point-9-earthquake-strikes-solomon-islands
The earthquake struck at a depth of 33 kilometres just before 1:30 this afternoon local time (0228 UTC) 75 kilometres west of Lata and 587 kilometres east of Honiara.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning centre says the threat of hazardous waves has mostly passed, although some changes to tidal patterns near the epicentre are possible.
 
  • #3
seismogram of the event ( saved before it overwrote itself)

150718 0227UT  M 7.5 NW of Lata, Santa Cruz Isl zhi1.gif
 
  • #7
arydberg said:
Here is an interesting prediction of one coming.

http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2015/07/20/the-really-big-one
yes, there's been lost of studies done and more ongoing ones of the Cascadia subduction zone
if you do some searching on youtube ( and stay away from the garbage stuff) you will find some good doco's
done by the USGS and other institutions in the Pacific NW region.

I has been the cause of large historic events and there is no reason to not expect more big events in the future
just when and how big are the difficult Q's to answer

cheers
Dave
 

Related to Is the Cascadia subduction zone a major seismic threat to the Pacific Northwest?

1. What is a big quake?

A big quake, also known as a major earthquake, is a seismic event that has a magnitude of 7.0 or higher on the Richter scale. These earthquakes can cause significant damage and destruction, and can also trigger secondary hazards such as landslides and tsunamis.

2. Where are big quakes most likely to occur?

Big quakes can occur in any region of the world, but they are most likely to happen along major fault lines. These fault lines are areas where tectonic plates meet and can cause intense seismic activity. Some well-known fault lines include the San Andreas Fault in California and the Ring of Fire around the Pacific Rim.

3. How do scientists predict when a big quake will happen?

Unfortunately, it is not yet possible to predict exactly when a big quake will occur. However, scientists use various methods such as monitoring seismic activity, studying historical data, and analyzing geological features to forecast the likelihood of a big quake in a certain region.

4. What should I do if I live in an area prone to big quakes?

If you live in an area that is at risk for big quakes, it is important to be prepared. Make sure you have an emergency plan in place and know what to do in the event of an earthquake. This may include having a disaster supply kit, securing heavy furniture, and knowing the safest places to take cover.

5. Can we prevent a big quake from happening?

No, we cannot prevent a big quake from happening. Earthquakes are a natural occurrence caused by the movement of tectonic plates. However, we can take steps to mitigate the effects of a big quake by being prepared and implementing stronger building codes in areas prone to seismic activity.

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