A shallow earthquake near Susanville, California caused light shaking for millions, with low risk of fatalities and minimal economic damage.
Shallow Earthquake Strikes Near Susanville, California
A shallow earthquake struck 9 miles (14 km) north of Susanville, California in the United States. The quake had a very shallow depth of 3 km, and shallow earthquakes cause stronger shaking and more noticeable effects.
The USGS, on the other hand, classified the risk of high number of fatalities generated by this earthquake as GREEN (low). They record a 65% chance of 0 to 1 fatalities, and a 96% probability that the number of deaths will be less than or equal to 10.
Similarly, the economic impact is also considered low (GREEN). USGS expects a 65% likelihood of $0–1 million in damages, and a 96% chance that the damage will not exceed $10 million.
According to USGS estimates, it is estimated that about 2.3 million people have felt shaking of intensity II or greater, Modified Mercalli Intensity.
The strongest shaking was level VI, which indicates strong shaking with possible light damage. About 30 people were exposed to this intensity. A majority of peopleabout 1.8 million felt level II, or very weak shaking, with no expected damage.
The earthquake could have been felt across the United States of America, and its nearest major town to the epicenter would have been Susanville. Ground acceleration in Susanville is estimated to have been MMI IV, denoting light effects with no damage expected.
Sacramento – 142 miles south-southwest (unknown intensity, probable limited damage)
RenoNV84 E (10°)MMI II (Weak, No Injury or Damage)
Stockton – 181 miles south (unknown intensity, probable minimal)
According to the USGS, the absence of intensity information for some towns or cities generally indicates a weak effect of the earthquake.
In conclusion, the earthquake that occurred around Susanville was shallow and light in nature. The chances of loss of life and economic injury are extremely low, with the majority of the community affected by weak to very weak ground motions. Few people were affected by strong ground motions that can cause slight damage to structures and other economic assets.
