On the 35th anniversary of the Loma Prieta earthquake, residents of Santa Cruz County reflect on the event that caused severe damage and numerous casualties. The quake registered a magnitude of 6.9, leading to chaos as communication lines went down. Eyewitness accounts detail the immediate aftermath and the disruption faced by the community. County officials emphasize the importance of emergency preparedness for future earthquakes.
On the 35th anniversary of the Loma Prieta earthquake, reflections from individuals in Santa Cruz County illuminate the profound impact this devastating event had on the community. Occurring on October 17, 1989, the earthquake registered a magnitude of 6.9, causing approximately $10 billion in damage, and tragically taking the lives of 63 individuals while injuring close to 3,800 others. The quake, known for its epicenter near Loma Prieta Peak in the Santa Cruz Mountains, created chaos as communication lines faltered, and residents struggled to understand the unfolding disaster. Jay Rosella Myers reminisced about the disorienting experiences of that night, recollecting, “That night we didn’t know what was happening, phone services were out. I couldn’t call my husband who worked over the hill and he had a long time driving because all the roads were closed because of all the earth that had come down on the roads.” Her observations of the scene within her home brought to life the intensity of the quake. “My house was like a poltergeist, it hit hard in different directions. Lots of things came out of the cabinets all over the floors. I thought I saw smoke, and it turned out part of the clear ocean had gone down, creating a huge dust up into the air almost like it was smoke.” The aftermath was equally turbulent; local businesses reported significant damage and operational disruptions—”All the tiles like marble tiles were popping off on the walls in that little area of the businesses,” Myers noted, highlighting the chaotic environment filled with sirens and power outages. Philip Arro, a volunteer firefighter in Davenport, described his immediate response, stating, “I got into my chief’s truck and drove around Davenport to check out the town and make sure everybody’s okay. The electricity was out in the store, and in Davenport, there were a few things that fell off the shelves—bottles of water and wine splattered all over the floor.” He explained the sensation of the quake, indicating that for the residents, it presented more of a jolt than a shake due to Davenport’s geological position. “The jerk that happened in Davenport right away, I jumped and ran underneath the doorway to make sure I secured myself there. But my reaction and earthquake is common here in California.” As the 35th commemoration occurred, David Reid, director of Santa Cruz County, emphasized the necessity of preparedness for future emergencies. He advised, “Emergency preparedness includes critical medicines, documentation, food, and water—these are fundamental elements of earthquake readiness.” Reid encouraged residents to assemble emergency kits with essential documents and supplies, including non-perishable food and batteries. The reflections of Davenport residents serve as a stark reminder of the Loma Prieta earthquake’s lasting legacy and underscore the importance of readiness in the face of potential seismic activities.
The Loma Prieta earthquake, which struck on October 17, 1989, is recognized as one of the most significant earthquakes in California’s history, particularly noted for its effects on the Santa Cruz County and the surrounding Bay Area. With a magnitude of 6.9, the quake resulted in notable infrastructure damage, casualties, and profound impacts on community communication and safety. It serves as a distinct example of the necessity for emergency preparedness in earthquake-prone areas.
The reflections shared by Davenport residents on the anniversary of the Loma Prieta earthquake illustrate the far-reaching effects of this historical event on their lives and the community. They highlight the importance of preparedness, as reiterated by county officials, who urge residents to have emergency plans in place. As the community remembers the tragedy, they also look forward, reinforcing measures to ensure safety during future seismic events.
Original Source: kion546.com
