California’s next big seismic event may not be an earthquake, but a volcano.
Most of the volcanoes are in the central and northern portion of the state.
“The potential for damaging earthquakes, landslides, floods, tsunamis, and wildfires is widely recognized in California,” the report said. “The same cannot be said for volcanic eruptions, despite the fact that they occur in the state about as frequently as the largest earthquakes on the San Andreas Fault.”
The USGS report noted there have been 10 volcanic eruptions in the region in the past 1,000 years, noting that “future volcanic eruptions are inevitable.”
Researchers said that nearly 200,000 people live, work, or travel through volcanic hazard zones in California on a daily basis.
“Of the eight volcanic areas that exist in California, molten rock resides beneath at least seven of these—Medicine Lake volcano, Mount Shasta, Lassen Volcanic Center, Clear Lake volcanic field, the Long Valley volcanic region, Coso volcanic field, and Salton Buttes—and are therefore considered ‘active’ volcanoes producing volcanic earthquakes, toxic gas emissions, hot springs, geothermal systems, and (or) ground movement,” said the report.
Mount Shasta, one of the most iconic peaks in California, has a very high threat level. Meanwhile, about 100,000 people live, work, or travel near the volcano.
In the event of an eruption, not only humans will be affected, but crops, livestock, and other animals.
“Exposure of agricultural crops, pastures, and livestock to volcanic ash fall can be serious, even for a light dusting. Ash fall on forage most commonly results in digestive tract problems in livestock, including gastrointestinal tract obstruction,” the report said.
The USGS, in its report, said it will identify specific volcanoes to monitor habits.
“This will require the collective efforts of scientists, land managers, civil authorities, lifeline operators, and communities,” the USGS report concludes. “Only together can California successfully manage volcanic risk and continue to enjoy the beauty and benefits of a geologically dynamic state.”
“The next step in reducing volcanic risk involves assessing site- and sector-specific vulnerabilities and developing mitigation strategies,” added the report. “This will require the collective efforts of scientists, land managers, civil authorities, lifeline operators, and communities.”
