Author: “Sharon” Chenyun Hu
Published: 05/07/24 Updated: 05/07/24
(Source: https://images.app.goo.gl/UE7ew7ffE5usKFQR9)
Introduction
In recent years, seismic events around the world have underscored the importance of earthquake preparedness. Taiwan and the United States, particularly areas like California on the West Coast, face significant earthquake risks due to their location along active tectonic plate boundaries.
On April 3, 2024, a 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Taiwan’s east coast. The tremor, centered 11 miles south of the coastal city of Hualien, was the most powerful to hit the island nation in 25 years. It was felt across the country and as far away as Hong Kong and Shanghai, China. The quake sent boulders and mud tumbling down the mountains and destroyed or damaged several buildings in Hualien. At least 13 people were killed, and over a thousand were injured. As of April 7, 2024, rescuers were still looking for six people believed to be buried in the rubble (Bonet, 2024). Last major earthquake in Taiwan was the Chi-Chi earthquake, also known as the “921 earthquake,” struck Taiwan at 01:47:12 a.m. local time on September 21, 1999, leaving 2,415 people dead, 29 missing, and 11,305 injured (Chi, 2019). From the scale and the degree of damage, it is believed to be the worst earthquake in 20th century Taiwan.
The United States has already had several deadly earthquakes. Over the past 140 years, major quakes have struck Alaska, Hawaii, California, Pacific Northwest, and even South Carolina. The seismic activity in California is widely known, and high-hazard areas cover large sections of the state, including the San Francisco Bay area, Los Angeles, and San Diego. The San Andreas Fault has caused some of the most notable earthquakes in recent memory. These quakes have been especially destructive because they occur in places where many people live. In 1994, the Northridge earthquake with a magnitude of 6.7 struck near LA, killing 57 people, injuring more than 8,700, and causing $13 to $40 billion in damages (Groundworks Company, n.d.). California remains the U.S. state most at risk of a major earthquake. A major earthquake somewhere in California is virtually a certainty in the next 30 years, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Some of the most hazardous regions of the state are also the most populated, including Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area. A major quake in one of these areas is guaranteed to be a disaster that will take many lives (Mason, 2008).
(Image source: https://images.app.goo.gl/xMB5BuEP8nTHaueZ9)
These regions experience frequent seismic activity, making it crucial for residents to prioritize earthquake preparedness measures to safeguard lives, property, and infrastructure. One important earthquake preparedness measure is to retrofit homes with seismic upgrades to enhance their structural integrity and resistance to shaking.
What is Seismic Retrofitting?
Seismic retrofitting is a process designed to strengthen existing structures against earthquake damage. It involves assessing a building’s vulnerability to seismic forces and implementing modifications to improve its ability to withstand earthquakes. (California Residential Mitigation Program, n.d.) Retrofitting techniques may include adding bracing or shear walls, reinforcing foundations, and securing non-structural components. The goal is to minimize structural damage, reduce the risk of collapse, and enhance occupant safety during seismic events.
Why Retrofitting Homes?
(Source: https://youtu.be/Wis_dBN3ql4?si=ASXSsRq0ZtghKxbo)
Reason 1: Increase safety
Properly retrofitted houses are made stronger against earthquake shaking and damage. This means your house is safer, and you’ve reduced the chance of injury or even death in a devastating earthquake.
Reason 2: Financially protect your investment
You have invested a lot of time and money into your older house. Without a seismic retrofit, the repair costs you’d face after a damaging earthquake could be very costly. Think of it this way: it’s a lot cheaper to retrofit your house now than it is to repair it after an earthquake.
Reason 3: Make sure you have a place to live
If you have not seismically retrofitted your house and an earthquake damages it, it means you probably have to move out of your home during repairs, and rental costs typically go up in affected areas following a major disaster. That means you could be paying repair costs, rental costs, and your mortgage—all at the same time!
Retrofitting will keep your house from being displaced from its foundation. It improves a home’s ability to keep residents safe during an earthquake and the house habitable after a major disaster, as well as reduce repair cost and insurance premiums after a seismic event. The goal of retrofitting is for homeowners to shelter in place and survive a major earthquake (California Earthquake Authority, n.d.).
Lessons from Taiwan
660 metric ton golden sphere that hangs from the 92nd floor
(Image source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-13266827/
Taiwan-tallest-building-earthquake-Taipei-101.html)
Why Taiwan was so prepared for a powerful earthquake? This article shed some light on Taiwan’s effective seismic retrofitting efforts and overall resilience in the face of earthquakes (Bush, 2024).
Building Codes and Public Awareness
Taiwan has implemented strict building codes since 1974, incorporating earthquake resistance requirements. Over the years, the country has learned from major earthquakes worldwide, such as those in Mexico and Los Angeles, to strengthen its building code further. Public awareness campaigns have also contributed to better preparedness among residents.
Retrofitting Initiatives
Following devastating earthquakes, such as the Chi-Chi quake in 1999 and a strong quake in Hualien in 2018, Taiwan initiated large-scale building inspections and retrofitting projects. More than 10,000 school buildings and private apartment buildings have been retrofitted over the past two decades. These efforts have improved the structural integrity of buildings and reduced vulnerability to seismic events.
Resilience of Infrastructure
Taiwan’s infrastructure, including its tallest skyscrapers like Taipei 101, is engineered to withstand seismic activity. Even older buildings that have undergone retrofitting have demonstrated resilience during earthquakes. The government’s proactive measures, along with cooperation from private companies like the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), have contributed to strengthening critical infrastructure.
(Source: https://youtu.be/mGe9zjwK2gQ?si=PiSbQfuCbAoIhtAh)
Effective Response and Civil Society Involvement
Taiwan’s response to earthquakes has improved significantly over the years, with rescue teams specializing in complex operations and trained volunteers contributing to relief efforts. Civil society plays a crucial role in disaster preparedness, with organizations providing essential supplies, counseling, and support to affected residents. Lessons learned from past disasters have led to more systematic disaster prevention strategies and better community preparedness.
Taiwan’s comprehensive approach to seismic retrofitting, combined with effective response measures and civil society involvement, has contributed to its resilience in mitigating the impact of earthquakes and ensuring the safety of its population.
San Jose, California’s Call for Action
As the highest-risk state for earthquakes in the United States, California starts to recognize the importance of seismic retrofitting as a critical measure to mitigate the devastating effects of seismic events. The article emphasizes the importance of earthquake safety and encourages San Jose homeowners to prioritize seismic retrofits for their homes (Maffei, 2024).
History of Devastating Earthquakes
Despite most earthquakes being common and minor, history has shown that devastating earthquakes can occur, causing loss of life and extensive damage. Examples include the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989 and the Northridge earthquake in 1994.
Uncertainty of Earthquakes
Data from the California Earthquake Authority website suggests a high probability of a major earthquake striking California within the next 30 years. This uncertainty underscores the importance of earthquake preparedness measures. San Jose and the surrounding areas face significant earthquake risks due to their location near several major earthquake faults, including the San Andreas, Calaveras, and Hayward faults. The geological features of California, shaped by millennia of seismic activity, contribute to the region’s vulnerability to earthquakes.
Cost of Earthquakes Damage vs Seismic Retrofitting
Earthquakes pose not only risks to public safety but also result in high financial costs. A report by the U.S. Geological Survey and Federal Emergency Management Agency estimates that earthquakes could cost California an average of $9.6 billion annually in damages. Many homes in high-risk areas were built before modern safety standards were introduced, making them more susceptible to damage during earthquakes. Retrofitting homes, especially securing them to their foundations, can significantly reduce the risk of catastrophic damage. Compared to the cost of earthquakes, seismic retrofitting presents a more economical and proactive solution. Retrofitting homes and buildings to withstand seismic forces can significantly reduce the risk of damage and collapse during earthquakes, potentially saving billions of dollars in repair and reconstruction costs. Additionally, the upfront investment in retrofitting is considerably lower than the long-term expenses associated with earthquake-related damages, making it a prudent and cost-effective strategy for mitigating seismic risks.
Earthquake Brace + Bolt Program
The California Residential Mitigation Program’s Earthquake Brace + Bolt grant provides funding for homeowners to retrofit their homes against earthquakes. Eligible homeowners in the Bay Area can apply for grants of up to $3,000, with supplemental grants available for income-eligible households. The residents of San Jose and Bay Area are encouraged to prioritize earthquake retrofitting as a New Year’s resolution. With support from programs like Earthquake Brace + Bolt, homeowners have an opportunity to strengthen their homes and enhance resilience against seismic threats.
California’s seismic retrofitting efforts have been gaining momentum in recent years, driven by increasing awareness of the state’s vulnerability to earthquakes and the need to mitigate potential damage. While progress has been made, there is still much work to be done, given the vast number of buildings in California that require retrofitting. Continued investment in retrofitting programs, public education, and enforcement of seismic safety regulations will be crucial in improving the state’s overall resilience to earthquakes.
Is Oregon Ready for Next “Big One”?
Oregon, like other states in the Pacific Northwest, is vulnerable to a catastrophic earthquake due to its proximity to the Cascadia Subduction Zone, where large earthquakes can occur. One of the primary concerns is the potential impact of a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake, which could result in widespread devastation, including building collapse, infrastructure damage, and loss of life.
However, compared to Taiwan and California, Oregon is quite underprepared for a major earthquake event. For instance, according to City of Portland (2019), Portland is the only jurisdiction in Oregon that has adopted specific, prescriptive standards for earthquake retrofitting. While the City of Portland has taken a proactive step by adopting specific standards for earthquake retrofitting, there’s still big room for improvement in seismic retrofitting efforts.
To address the gaps in seismic preparedness in Oregon, several policy recommendations can be implemented to enhance earthquake retrofitting efforts and overall readiness for the next “Big One.”
Policy Recommendations
Based on the lessons learned from Taiwan and San Jose, here are some policy recommendations to enhance seismic retrofitting:
Mandatory Retrofitting Requirements
Implement mandatory retrofitting requirements for buildings identified as high-risk based on factors such as age, construction type, and location in seismic hazard zones. This would help prioritize retrofitting efforts for structures most vulnerable to earthquake damage and ensure widespread compliance with retrofitting regulations.
Comprehensive Retrofitting Standards
Develop comprehensive and robust retrofitting standards that cover a wide range of building types, including residential, commercial, and critical infrastructure. These standards should be based on the latest research and engineering practices to ensure the effectiveness of retrofit measures in reducing earthquake risks.
Financial Incentives
Establish incentive programs to encourage building owners to voluntarily retrofit their properties beyond mandatory requirements. This could include financial incentives such as tax credits, grants, or low-interest loans, as well as non-financial incentives such as expedited permitting or recognition for seismic resilience efforts.
Streamlined Permitting Process
Create a streamlined permitting process for seismic retrofitting projects to expedite approval and implementation. This could involve developing specialized permitting pathways for retrofitting projects, reducing administrative burdens, and providing technical assistance to facilitate the retrofitting process for building owners and contractors.
Public Education and Outreach
Launch public education and outreach campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of seismic retrofitting and provide guidance on retrofitting options, benefits, and resources available to building owners. This could involve disseminating informational materials, hosting workshops and seminars, and partnering with community organizations to reach diverse audiences.
Contractor Certification and Training
Establish certification and training programs for contractors involved in seismic retrofitting to ensure they possess the necessary expertise and qualifications to perform retrofitting work safely and effectively. This could include providing specialized training courses, certification exams, and continuing education opportunities for retrofitting professionals.
Collaboration and Coordination
Foster collaboration and coordination among government agencies, industry stakeholders, advocacy groups, and academic institutions to develop and implement seismic retrofitting regulations effectively. This could involve forming task forces or advisory committees to provide input on regulatory development, share best practices, and address emerging challenges in seismic resilience.
By implementing these policy recommendations, we can strengthen our seismic retrofitting efforts, enhance the resilience of our built environment to earthquake hazards, and better protect the safety and well-being of their residents and communities.
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#SeismicRetrofitting
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Reference
Bonet, M. (2024, April 12). Natural disaster expertise helped limit earthquake death toll in Taiwan. DOGOnews. https://www.dogonews.com/2024/4/6/natural-disaster-expertise-helped-limit-earthquake-death-toll-in-taiwan (https://www.dogonews.com/2024/4/6/natural-disaster-expertise-helped-limit-earthquake-death-toll-in-taiwan)
Bush, E. (2024, April 3). Earthquake showed Taiwan was well prepared for a big one — more so than parts of U.S. NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/science/science-news/taiwan-earthquake-well-prepared-rcna146243
California Residential Mitigation Program. (n.d.). What is Earthquake Retrofitting? Retrieved May 6, 2024, from https://www.californiaresidentialmitigationprogram.com/resources/blog/what-is-earthquake-retrofitting
California Earthquake Authority. (n.d.). Benefits of seismic upgrades: Is earthquake retrofitting worth it in CA? Retrieved May 6, 2024, from https://www.earthquakeauthority.com/blog/2020/benefits-seismic-upgrades-why-retrofit-your home#:~:text=The%20goal%20of%20retrofitting%20is,being%20displaced%20from%20its%20foundation.
Chi C. H. (2019). Examining the Disaster Response Twenty Years After the 1999 Chi-Chi
Earthquake. Journal of acute medicine, 9(3), 81–82. https://doi.org/10.6705/j.jacme.201909_9(3).0001 (https://doi.org/10.6705/j.jacme.201909_9(3).0001)
City of Portland. (2019). Earthquake retrofitting. https://www.oregon.gov/ccb/Documents/Earthquake%20Retrofitting.pdf
Groundworks Company. (n.d.). What Are the Worst U.S. Cities for Earthquakes? Groundworks. Retrieved May 6, 2024, from https://www.groundworks.com/resources/worst-us-cities-for-earthquakes/ (https://www.groundworks.com/resources/worst-us-cities-for-earthquakes/)
Maffei, J. (2024, January 3). Maffei: San Jose homeowners should prioritize earthquake safety with seismic retrofits. San José Spotlight. https://sanjosespotlight.com/maffei-san-jose- (https://sanjosespotlight.com/maffei-san-jose-)
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