Recent research indicates that the Pacific Northwest is due for an earthquake of historic proportions and the area’s building stock is not expected to fare well.
The Cascadia subduction zone runs from northern California to Vancouver Island. Researchers in recent years have determined that the area has the potential for a more powerful tremor than had been previously believed. There was a similar situation in Japan a few years ago.
“The devastation in Japan in 2011 was the result of a discrepancy between what the best science predicted and what the region was prepared to withstand,” according to a New Yorker article. “The same will hold true in the Pacific Northwest—but here the discrepancy is enormous.”
Seismic codes were weak or non-existent more than 40 years ago. “Until 1974, the state of Oregon had no seismic code, and few places in the Pacific Northwest had one appropriate to a magnitude-9.0 earthquake until 1994,” the article says. “The vast majority of buildings in the region were constructed before then.”
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Aug 22, 2019
Texas flood prevention initiative would create nation’s most ambitious barrier system
Plan including sand dunes and mechanical barriers would cost as much as $32 billion.
Codes and Standards | Aug 22, 2019
Multimedia app identifies construction hazards
Researchers say program will reduce injuries, save lives.
Codes and Standards | Aug 22, 2019
Cities take action to keep cool as climate heats up
Initiatives include cool streets, cool roofs, and broader urban tree canopy.
Codes and Standards | Aug 22, 2019
5G expected to give a boost to construction technology
Virtual reality, Internet of Things, robotics, and drones will all benefit from enhanced data flows.
Codes and Standards | Aug 15, 2019
New edition of Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete available
American Concrete Institute document includes major technical changes.
Codes and Standards | Aug 13, 2019
Coaching pays off for new managers
Study finds increased engagement and readiness for new roles.
Codes and Standards | Aug 12, 2019
New curtain wall design guidelines released
AAMA document includes mandatory language, optional language, and detailed technical commentary.
Codes and Standards | Aug 9, 2019
Cities modify density zoning to spur more affordable housing projects
Solutions include eliminating single-family zoning and allowing taller apartments in higher-density zones.
Codes and Standards | Aug 8, 2019
More designers focusing on acoustic properties of buildings
Recognition that structures should be acoustically satisfying.
Codes and Standards | Aug 7, 2019
Illinois law makes all single-occupancy restrooms gender-neutral
All must comply by January 1.