Earthquakes and dam failures are the most severe threats to Bakersfield, both of which can result in gas leaks and power disruptions. When it comes to earthquakes, California has stringent construction rules that are continually revised. However, while the majority of the seismic activity that has adversely impacted Kern County has happened on faults kilometers distant from the San Andreas fault, the San Andreas fault is still prone to extremely big (magnitude 8) earthquakes (”CSUB geologist to talk earthquakes for museum event”, n.d.). Furthermore, U.S. Geological Survey seismologist Gerald Bawden stated that while construction standards in the United States are higher than in China, a significant earthquake in Bakersfield would undoubtedly result in massive casualties (Barrientos & Kotowski, 2016).
The California State University of Bakersfield is located in this area and has an earthquake preparedness plan. For example, the official website says that the school grounds information sharing system will notify the university community of traffic conditions, possible dangers, and public statements whenever a significant earthquake occurs (”Earthquake”, n.d.). Moreover, students and teaching staff will be informed via “phone, building marshals, and police public address systems,” which will lead everybody to a collection point (”Earthquake”, n.d., para. 6).
However, while carefully investigating the problem, specific problems were identified. According to a news platform in Bakersfield, professors at California State University were worried about their safety when it was stated that the facility was not prepared for seismic activity (Harrington, 2016). As per Patrick Jacobs, Vice President of Facilities Management, the building was constructed in full compliance with the seismic and building regulations that were in effect in the 1970s (Harrington, 2016). However, if calculated, we can see that the facilities were built more than 50 years ago. Although this news report is from 2016, serious investigations might need to be performed. All faculties must be examined by an independent seismic committee comprised of experts in the fields of architecture and engineering. Emergency funds and expert assistance can help us perform not only a check-up but also avoid casualties.
References
Barrientos, J. & Kotowski, J. (2016). What would happen if a 7.9 earthquake hit Bakersfield? Bakersfield.
Earthquake. (n.d.). CSUB.
Harrington, J. (2016). CSUB faculty towers are deemed seismically deficient. 123 ABC News.
CSUB geologist to talk earthquakes for museum event. (n.d.). CSUB.