What Happens During a 7.8 Earthquake?

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On Nov. 4, Cal Poly Pomona will help the community prepare for an emergency with a safety fair and presentation on what Southern Californians can expect from a major earthquake. Both events build up to the Nov. 13 Great Southern California ShakeOut, a test of the region's ability to withstand a catastrophic earthquake.

Beginning at noon on Nov. 4, Dr. Ken Hudnut of the U.S. Geological Survey will discuss “ShakeOut: The Great Southern California Earthquake.” The lecture will help participants understand the impact of a 7.8 magnitude earthquake if it hits the southern San Andreas Fault. Experts consider a massive earthquake like this inevitable, and powerful enough to cause strong shaking throughout Southern California. Sponsored by the geological sciences department, the event will be held in the Bronco Bookstore Building (66), Room 202.

Scheduled in conjunction with the lecture is an Emergency and Safety Awareness Expo, which will provide education on how individuals can protect themselves, their families and their data in the event of a disaster. The expo, set to run from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Nov. 4 in the Bronco Bookstore Atrium, features informational booths, preparedness supplies and First-Aid information.

The Great Southern California ShakeOut is part of a statewide emergency drill and is unprecedented in scope. All individuals, private organizations and government agencies will be asked to “drop, cover and hold on” at 10 a.m. on Nov. 13. At Cal Poly Pomona, building marshals and floor captains will lead the earthquake drill so that participants can practice acting quickly to protect themselves.

Cal Poly Pomona is at 3801 W. Temple Ave. in Pomona. Parking permits may be obtained for $5 at the Visitor Information Booth along Kellogg Drive. For more information, call Debbi McFall at (909) 869-6981.