How will my house hold up in an earthquake? Can the USGS send someone out to evaluate my property?
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Welcome to CoreFacts, where we're always short on time and big on science. I'm Steve Sobieszczyk. Let's get right to it, today's question is:
How will my house hold up in an earthquake? Can the USGS send someone out to evaluate my property?
Published maps only provide generalized, uninterpreted information about specific areas. Every property consists of a unique combination of geologic and structural factors that must be considered to determine what might happen to a house during an earthquake. Therefore, an individual site study is necessary.
As a publicly-funded organization, the U.S. Geological Survey conducts regional hazard assessments in conjunction with State and local agencies. We provide information that is used by planning officials to mitigate hazards. The USGS does not undertake assessments of individual private property. Site studies must be arranged by the owner of the property with geologists or engineers in private practice.
And now you know. Join us again tomorrow as we'll give you yet another new CoreFact. If you're interested in previous CoreFacts, or would like to check out CoreCast, our in-depth science podcast, browse over to usgs.gov/podcasts. If you would like to contact us here at the show or submit a question you think we should answer on the air, you can email us at corefacts@usgs.gov or leave us a voicemail at 703-648-5600. Remember, long distance fees do apply.
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