Earthquake!
With casualties from the magnitude 7.9 earthquake in Sichuan, China continuing to rise, the reported 99% probability of a magnitude 6.7 or greater earthquake in California within the next 30 years is cause for preparation. These earthquake forecasts, called Uniform California Earthquake Rupture Forecasts, or UCERF, are sponsored by various bodies such as the U.S. Geological Survey, the California Geological Survey, and the Southern California Earthquake Center. The southern San Andreas fault is being eyed as most likely to generate a strong quake magnitude 6.7 or greater on the Richter scale. As scientists predict a 46% chance of a quake with magnitude 7.5 or higher in the same timeframe, most likely in Southern California, planners, officials and citizens can start working on safety precautions before the next big one hits the state.