Just one day after the March 22nd massive Oso, Washington landslide that followed a minor earthquake in the area, a series of small earthquakes rumbled beneath Government Camp and caught the attention of residents and State Geologists.
Over the next week, geologists recorded over 38 tremors in the Mount Hood area, situated over a recently discovered fault, and warned that the proximity to the fault indicates the possibility of a much larger earthquake in the area.
What Causes an Earthquake?
With miles between them, the Washington and Oregon events are related. The land under the United States is covered by the North American Plate. Off the Pacific Coast from British Columbia, Canada to Northern California lies the Juan de Fuca Plate, sliding under the North American Plate. From time to time, movement between the two plates is restricted. Tension builds up, causing the North American Plate to bow upward. Finally, the restriction is released in a sudden earthquake or series of quakes, as we have been experiencing.
How to Build Your Earthquake Emergency Kit
Oregon State officials urge residents and visitors in the area to prepare for an earthquake as they would for any other emergency, and offer the following safety tips for drivers:
If you’re driving when an earthquake hits, stop the car away from buildings, bridges, overpasses, trees and utility lines. Put your parking brake on and stay in the car until the shaking is over.
Residents should create an emergency kit for their car that includes bottled water, high-calorie snacks, first aid kit, flashlight, road maps, emergency contact list and emergency cash.