![]() Subduction zone earthquakes occur deep offshore when two or more tectonic plates shift into and over each other, slowing building up frictional energy until it is released. Earthquakes of this nature tend to affect a smaller area but can be more damaging relative to deep earthquakes because of their proximity to the surface. They are produced in the upper 18 miles of the Earth’s crust, though most occur much closer to the surface. The 2001 Nisqually earthquake is a historical example of an earthquake originating from this zone.Ĭrustal faulting earthquakes occur along faults close to the surface of the North American plate. Because of their depth, the seismic energy of deep intraplate earthquakes is distributed over a large area. They emanate from depths of 30 to 50 miles and can reach a strength as high as magnitude 7.5. Earthquakes from this zone are common in the greater Puget Sound Basin. A subsequent economic downturn would likely result from major transportation disruptions and loss of revenue from suspended business and services.ĭeep intraplate earthquakes occur along faults in the subducting portions of the Juan de Fuca plate, originating beneath the North American plate. Individuals and households may be displaced due to damaged homes. Structural fires are a common secondary hazard from earthquake destruction. Communities are likely to face communication, electricity, motor fuel, natural gas, water, food, and general merchandise supply disruptions. Infrastructural failures can result in loss of public and private sector services and business. Damage to infrastructure such as roads, bridges, rail lines, runways, and almost all types of utilities is certain. ![]() ![]() Failed buildings, bridges, and other structures can trap or bury people causing injury and mass casualties. The impacts from earthquakes to communities is well evidenced by the historic 2001 Nisqually earthquake, along with other more recent catastrophic earthquakes around the world including the 2011 Great Tohoku Earthquake in Japan and the 2021 Nippes, Haiti earthquake. The Thurston County region is vulnerable to earthquakes from all three zones. ![]() The three source zones capable of causing major destruction are the Cascadia Subduction, Deep Intraplate, and Crustal Faulting zones. Seismologists categorize northwest earthquakes into three different source zones. ![]()
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