3.7 Magnitude Earthquake Rocks San Francisco
A magnitude 3.7 earthquake rattled the San Francisco Bay Area on Friday morning at 7:02 a.m., as per the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
Following this, the USGS indicated that a 2.5 magnitude aftershock along the San Andreas fault occurred at 9:39 a.m., succeeded by a 3.0 magnitude quake at 10:48 a.m., with no injuries or damages reported.
“You are likely more prepared than you realize—just set aside a few moments to gather supplies and develop a plan with your loved ones,” the department advised.
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“As we assess the situation, I’m collaborating with our first responders to ensure we’re adhering to best practices for keeping our city secure during natural disasters,” he noted.
Mayor Lurie emphasized that measures are being implemented to guarantee that city officials are ready for “whatever challenges arise.”
Per the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, establishing a communication strategy with family and friends is critical when planning for an earthquake.
The commission also stressed the necessity of having an emergency kit stocked with water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, cash, a battery-operated radio, batteries, and any essential prescription medications.
“Have enough water stored for your family to last 3 to 5 days,” the commission advised. “Each family member should have one gallon daily, and don’t forget your pets.”
Records show that a 7.9-magnitude earthquake struck the city in April 1906, obliterating over 28,000 structures across four square miles.
“The impact was devastating for San Francisco,” the commission reflected. “It ignited a massive fire, exacerbated by collapsing buildings and a failing water system. For three days, flames consumed the City, and while around 3,000 deaths have been estimated, the actual toll may never be definitively known.”
This catastrophic event highlighted the urgent need for a reliable water supply system for firefighting, leading to the construction of the Emergency Fire Fighting Water System in 1913 at a cost of $5.2 million. This system includes a 135-mile pipeline, a high-elevation reservoir, two water tanks, two pumping stations, fire boats, and underground storage tanks.
The commission noted that the system draws from the Bay and can deliver water at high pressure.
In 2011, oversight of the water system was transferred to the commission to implement “long-term seismic and operational upgrades” to bolster the city against future natural disasters.
Meanwhile, Los Angeles city and state authorities are facing criticism for their response to the ongoing wildfires which have devastated the region.
Over 5,000 homes have been destroyed, and at least 10 fatalities have been reported, as the city grapples with insufficient water pressure from its system to combat the fires.
Gov. Gavin Newsom has initiated an investigation into the water system in response.
The Associated Press contributed to this article.
