
Southern California earthquake risk study reveals highest stress in 1,000 years
A new study on Southern California's earthquake risk, published in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Solid Earth, reveals that tectonic stress on the San Andreas and San Jacinto fault systems has reached its highest levels in 1,000 years. Researchers used a computer model based on 1,000 years of geological data to estimate current stress levels, finding the San Jacinto-Bernardino section has reached 3.6 megapascals. The study also suggests that under certain conditions, the two major fault systems could rupture simultaneously, leading to more destructive earthquakes affecting millions.














