1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake: Devastating Impact on the San Francisco Bay Area

Breaking News Summary

On October 17, 1989, California experienced a devastating magnitude 6.9 earthquake known as the Loma Prieta earthquake. Occurring at 5:04 pm, the temblor shook the San Francisco Bay Area, causing significant damage and loss of life.

Background and Impacts

The epicenter was located near Loma Prieta, about 10 miles northeast of Santa Cruz. The earthquake struck on the San Andreas fault, a major seismic zone running through California. The earthquake resulted in 63 confirmed fatalities and over 3,700 injuries. It caused widespread damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, buildings, and utilities. The economic impact was estimated at over $5 billion.

The Loma Prieta earthquake served as a stark reminder of the seismic risks faced by the San Francisco Bay Area. It prompted significant efforts to improve building codes and enhance disaster preparedness.