Hidden fault capable of devastating earthquakes uncovered deep in California forest

Geologists in northern California are currently investigating a mysterious fault in Humboldt County that they believe is still active and capable of causing earthquakes. This discovery comes shortly after a powerful earthquake struck NorCal, prompting further exploration of the fault.

The team, led by Mark Hemphill-Haley, a professor emeritus of geology at Cal Poly Humboldt, is conducting excavations to study the fault in more detail. Initial findings suggest that it is a well-defined reverse fault, indicating the potential for seismic activity in the region.

The California Geological Survey geologist, Jason Patton, first identified the fault in the Shively area using lidar technology four years ago. Collaborating with Hemphill-Haley, they have embarked on a project to dig up the fault and gather more data. With funding from the US Geological Survey, the team has dug a 30 feet wide and 15 feet deep trench to further investigate the fault.

As the scientists were examining the trench, a 5.6-magnitude earthquake struck neighboring Mendocino County, causing injuries and damage to local businesses. However, the Shively fault poses a more significant threat, with the potential to produce a magnitude 7 earthquake, according to the USGS.

With only a limited number of earthquakes of this magnitude occurring in California in the last century, scientists are hopeful that the additional data collected from the fault excavation will help them better prepare for future seismic events.

The Pacific Ring of Fire, which includes California and stretches across thousands of miles from South America to Australia, is a region notorious for producing devastating earthquakes. Recent earthquakes in Venezuela, also located along the Ring of Fire, resulted in significant casualties and damage. The USGS estimates a high probability of casualties and extensive damage in the event of a major earthquake along the Ring of Fire.

The potential impact of seismic activity in California and other regions along the Ring of Fire underscores the importance of ongoing research and preparedness efforts. The geologists involved in the investigation of the Shively fault are working diligently to gather crucial data that will aid in mitigating the effects of future earthquakes.