Earthquake Risks of 5 Commercial Building Types

Earthquakes don’t just shake the ground—they test the strength of every structure built upon it. For many types of commercial buildings, especially those constructed before modern safety codes, seismic events reveal dangerous vulnerabilities that could put lives and investments at risk. From concrete tilt-ups to soft-story apartments with open ground floors, each type of commercial […]

Living with Earthquakes in California: Myths, Facts and Safety

California is one of the most seismically active regions in the world, experiencing frequent tremors ranging from minor shakes to potentially catastrophic events. While most earthquakes in California go unnoticed, larger ones can cause widespread damage, endangering lives and property. This article explores the frequency, causes, and impacts of California earthquakes while debunking myths and […]

Is Commercial Earthquake Insurance Worth It?

Damage to a commercial building after the Northridge earthquake. Source: USGS Earthquakes are among the most common natural disasters, yet standard property insurance rarely covers them. Property owners in high-risk areas often need separate earthquake insurance, which provides financial protection for rebuilding, repairs, and other expenses. While the risks of earthquakes are well-known in high-seismic […]

The Northridge Earthquake: Pioneering Disaster Recovery

The 1994 Northridge Earthquake is remembered for the widespread destruction it caused across Southern California, but its long-term impact on disaster recovery planning is equally significant. It became a turning point for modern recovery methods, later applied to disasters like 9/11, Hurricanes Katrina and Harvey, and major wildfires. As part of the Earthquake Country Alliance’s […]

The Northridge Earthquake: Shaping Modern Seismic Resilience

As part of the Earthquake Country Alliance’s Northridge Earthquake Anniversary Webinar Series, Episode 4, titled “The Northridge Earthquake – 30 Years Later – A Catalyst for Engineering Resilient Communities,” brought together experts to explore how the 1994 Northridge earthquake sparked significant advancements in earthquake preparedness and response. This session, organized by top engineering and earthquake […]

California Balcony Inspections, What to Know!

In California, there is a mandatory safety inspection and must be performed before January 1, 2025. According to SB-721, this bill would require an inspection of exterior elevated elements and associated waterproofing elements, as defined, including decks and balconies, for buildings with 3 or more multifamily dwelling units by a licensed architect, licensed civil or […]

What Is a “Hurriquake”? Disaster Risks Explained

In mid-August, California was on watch of Hurricane Hilary, which would be downgraded to a tropical storm by the time it hit land. The National Hurricane Center said it had the potential for “life-threatening” floods and debris flow warnings, which remained in effect across the Southwest region of the U.S. While bracing and preparing for […]

Is the West Coast Prepared for the Next Big Earthquake?

Experts predict the West Coast should be prepared for the next big earthquake to hit very soon, as early as tomorrow! Are you ready? Mid-December of 2022, USA Today released the article, ‘It could happen tomorrow’: Experts know disaster upon disaster looms for West Coast in which, “Scientists say a massive quake could strike the […]

Did you take part in the “Great California Shakeout?”

Are you familiar with International ShakeOut Day? It is where you have a one-minute earthquake drill to prepare for proper emergency protocols during an earthquake and it takes place the third Thursday every October. This year the International ShakeOut Day was October 20th, people can participate at work, school, or home. For more information on […]

Is the West Coast Ready for the Next Big Earthquake?

Experts predict the West Coast should be prepared for the next big earthquake to hit very soon, as early as tomorrow! Are you ready? According to USA Today, “Scientists say a massive quake could strike the San Francisco Bay Area at any moment. And when it does, the city can expect to be slammed with […]