Several times over the last several years Kentucky has felt the effects of several earthquake zones throughout the state. And it’s time more Kentuckians learned about Kentucky’s earthquake prone regions, and how to prepare themselves in the event of the next major shakeup.
When will Kentucky experience another serious, damaging earthquake? There is no way to predict an earthquake, and its effects on Kentucky will depend on where the ‘quake happens, how large and how deep underground it is and the local geologic conditions of areas affected. What we can do is learn how to earthquake-proof our homes and offices, and what to do in the event of an earthquake of large magnitude.
In stronger earthquakes, the ground motion can damage or destroy buildings and infrastructure (such as roads, pipelines and underground utilities), toss building contents around (even if the building structure is not seriously damaged), trigger fires and landslides and cause a phenomenon called liquefaction in which sandy soils act almost like a liquid or jelly, undermining buildings’ foundations.
Clearly, the safety of people is the first concern in preparing for earthquakes and their after-effects. Damage to buildings, especially buildings with large, open areas such as school gymnasiums, cafeterias and assembly areas occupied by large numbers of people pose a threat to those inside the building. Knowing what to do when the ground begins to shake can help to prevent injuries and deaths. (Kentucky law, KRS 158.163, requires earthquake disaster plans for schools and twice-yearly earthquake drills.)
