Preparedness
Debunking Earthquake Myths: What You Really Need to Know
Throughout history, people have concocted a variety of imaginative explanations for earthquakes, from mythical creatures to divine interventions. While modern geology has debunked these ancient ideas, several misconceptions about earthquakes continue to persist today. These myths can be just as misleading and potentially dangerous when it comes to preparing for these powerful natural events.
One prevalent myth is the notion that earthquakes can cause the ground to open up and swallow people, cars, and buildings whole. However, experts largely dismiss this idea. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) explains that “shallow crevasses can form during earthquake-induced landslides, lateral spreads, or from other types of ground failures, but faults do not open up during an earthquake.” Earthquakes occur when two blocks of the earth’s crust slide past one another, held together by friction. If a fault were to open, the friction would be lost, and no earthquake would occur.
Recent research from Caltech University, published in the journal Nature, suggests that “thrust faults” can create gaps in the earth’s surface up to 160 feet wide before snapping shut. However, these phenomena have been observed only in oceanic settings, and there are no recorded incidents of such crevasses swallowing people or buildings. Therefore, this scenario should not be a primary concern in earthquake preparedness.
Another common misconception is the belief that doorways provide the safest refuge during an earthquake. This advice stems from historical examples of old adobe homes in California, where doorframes remained standing amid the rubble. However, as the University of Washington Department of Emergency Management notes, “In modern houses, the doorways are no stronger than any other part of the house, and the doorway does not protect you from the most likely source of injury – falling or flying objects…you are safer under a table.”
Living in urban or suburban areas often gives a false sense of security regarding disaster preparedness. It’s easy to assume that essential resources will remain accessible, but a major earthquake can disrupt even the most basic services. Severed roads, power, and water lines can isolate communities, making it difficult to obtain necessities. This is why organizations like FEMA now recommend preparing a two-week emergency kit instead of the traditional 72-hour one. For optimal preparedness, it’s wise to have at least three months’ worth of food, water, and gear.
Finally, there’s a misconception about the reliability of insurance in the aftermath of natural disasters. Insurance companies operate as businesses, not charities, and their main priority is their financial stability. Katherine R. H. Wagner from the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research points out that “a single natural disaster could bankrupt insurance companies,” leading some to hesitate in offering natural disaster coverage.
In conclusion, it’s crucial to dispel these myths and rely on accurate information when preparing for earthquakes. Understanding the realities of these natural events can help ensure better safety and preparedness for everyone involved.
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