OF-20-08 Earthquakes in Colorado

This informative brochure includes a map of Colorado and helpful information about the causes and effects of earthquakes, as well as what to do in the case of an earthquake. Up to ten paper copies may be ordered for free, please contact us directly at cgs_pubs@mines.edu for those. Otherwise, this is a PDF download. OF-20-08D

Excerpt:

Estimating the locations and magnitudes of historic earthquakes—those prior to the advent of modern scientific instruments—is important for understanding future earthquake hazards. For earthquakes that occurred in human occupied places, geoscientists can estimate the locations and magnitudes from written reports of shaking and damage. They may also use evidence in the geologic record to estimate the timing and size of prehistoric earthquakes.

The adoption of current and locally applicable building codes is an important first step to strengthen a community’s resilience to earthquakes and other hazards. Building codes rely on U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) hazard maps. These are based on prior known earthquake events and fault locations along with their seismic history. Given that the maps are periodically updated, building codes also need regular review. It is important for state and local governments to adopt and enforce the most recent building codes for their area.