LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Nevada is likely one of the most seismically energetic states within the nation. On Thursday, 1000’s of individuals throughout the state took half in a drill to observe what to do when the bottom begins to shake.
“Nevada is the third most active state in the U.S. in terms of magnitudes 5 or above, where only California and Alaska have more earthquakes of magnitude 5 and above than we do,” mentioned Kyren Bogolub, Community Seismologist with Nevada Seismological Laboratory.
College students at Veterans Tribute Profession and Technical Academy joined 1000’s statewide for the Nice Nevada ShakeOut, a drill selling earthquake preparedness.
“Here in Vegas, we don’t think that we experience earthquakes, but we are near a couple fault lines, so it is possible, and we’ve had earthquakes before,” mentioned pupil Sammuel Estrada.
College students practiced the three most necessary steps: drop, cowl, and maintain on.
“Drop down to the ground because if you’re lower to the ground, you’re less likely to get knocked over,” mentioned Bogolub. “Cover so if you can, get under a piece of furniture or something sturdy, but even just protecting your head and neck with your hands can make a big difference. And then hold on until the shaking stops.”
“To have a drill like this, it puts it into perspective that these things can happen. It just helps me know to be prepared in case something does,” mentioned Estrada.
Probably the most seismically energetic areas are in western Nevada, however seismologists say earthquakes can’t occur anyplace at any time. The state experiences about 100 earthquakes each week.
“Now most of those are small and you can’t feel them, but we probably have a magnitude 5 or larger at least once a year. We have magnitude 6 or larger at least every decade or so,” mentioned Bogolub.
And whereas the shakeout focuses on earthquakes, consultants say it’s a superb reminder to be prepared for any catastrophe.
“It’s a good opportunity to assess your general disaster preparedness. Having things like emergency go bags and evacuation plans are really helpful not just for earthquakes but the various other types of natural disasters we can face in Nevada,” mentioned Bogolub.
