The magnitude 5.4 earthquake that rocked southern California on July 29 is about 5,000 times smaller than the magnitude 7.8 earthquake depicted in the "ShakeOut Earthquake Scenario" schedule for 10 a.m. Nov. 13, 2008.
This new report is a portrayal of what could happen in a major earthquake on the southern end of the San Andreas Fault. The scenario is the basis of the Great Southern California ShakeOut, a week of special events featuring the largest earthquake drill in U.S. history on November 13. Details are at
"Yesterday's (July 29) earthquake was a wake-up call - a reminder to us to make the important changes we need to survive the inevitable," said Dr. Lucy Jones, of the U.S. Geological Survey, who led the group of over 300 experts who detailed the expected consequences of a hypothetical magnitude 7.8 earthquake that starts at the Salton Sea and ruptures northward along the San Andreas fault for 190 miles.
With a goal of at least 5 million participants, the ShakeOut drill will be the largest in U.S. history. To participate, go to
and pledge your family, school, business, or organization's participation in the drill. Registered participants will receive information on how to plan their drill, connect with other participants, and encourage a dialogue with others about earthquake preparedness. There are many ways to take part, but at the least participants should "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" at 10 A.M. on November 13. It all begins with registering, which is free and open to everyone.