The Newport-Inglewood and Rose Canyon fault lines in California were formerly thought to be separate, but scientists have recently discovered that they are actually part of a single fault system that is capable of producing a much more severe earthquake than previously believed. It runs between San Diego and Los Angeles, California.

 

In a recently published report in the Journal of Geophysical Research, scientists from UC San Diego and Scripps Institution of Oceanography state that this re-identified fault could generate a 7.4 magnitude earthquake. An earthquake of this size would exceed that of any recent quake in the Southern California region and likely cause severe damage.

 

For comparison, the famed Northridge Earthquake in 1994 measured 6.7, causing 57 deaths and over $20B of damage.

 

You can read more about this new finding here.

 

Everyone who lives in an earthquake-prone region should keep an emergency kit. The American Red Cross recommends including plenty of drinking water, ready-to-eat and high-energy foods, a first aid kit, tools and supplies that might prove useful in a power outage, toiletries and cleaning supplies, extra clothing and bedding, and any important documents. Ensure that you, your family and any domestic staff understand your emergency evacuation plan.