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Public Safety

Why Southern California Is Ripe For A Large Earthquake

California's San Andreas Fault seen in this undated photo by USGS.
USGS
California's San Andreas Fault seen in this undated photo by USGS.
A recent report by the U.S. Geological Survey shows California has gone more than 100 years without a significant land-rupturing earthquake. It has been nine years since a major earthquake of magnitude 6.0 or stronger was felt in the San Diego region.

Easter Sunday marks nine years since the last major earthquake shook the San Diego region. The magnitude 7.2 Baja California earthquake caused significant damage in Mexicali in 2010.

Nearly five years have passed since an earthquake of magnitude 6 or stronger occurred in California. Researchers with the U.S. Geological Survey recently published a study detailing how the state is in the midst of an earthquake drought, defined as a span of 100 years with no major, ground-rupturing earthquakes. Scientists say it’s possible the pattern could change in the years ahead with a period of more frequent, destructive earthquakes.

RELATED: UC San Diego Earthquake Simulator Getting Upgrade

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Dr. Thomas Rockwell, a San Diego State University geology professor and paleoseismologist, discussed the study findings and the history of earthquakes in the San Diego region.

Video: San Diego Earthquake Professor Talks Earthquake Drought
Why Southern California Is Ripe For A Large Earthquake
A recent report by the U.S. Geological Survey shows California has gone more than 100 years without a significant land-rupturing earthquake. It has been nine years since a major earthquake of magnitude 6.0 or stronger was felt in the San Diego region. You can hear this story and other local news every morning by subscribing to San Diego News Matters, KPBS’ daily news podcast. Subscribe via iTunes, Google Play or your favorite podcatcher.

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