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3 years have come and gone
since the Nisqually 'quake

A special anniversary!

Map is from the NSGS quake center

What is now referred to as the Nisqually Quake struck the Pacific Northwest three years ago on 28 Feb, 2001. It was centered about 32 miles deep under the earth's crust, and the reverberations went on for less than a minute - but it was an old familiar feeling. Thoughts of "what is this house's foundation like?"; "do you suppose the ceilings will fall down if this keeps up?" My, we are really shimmying! I'm almost a bit woozy!" and then ...focusing on the diningroom light fixture just swinging away... "oh, I guess it's almost over". The damage was light in this area and most things have been repaired. Memories have dimmed too.

But Once Again this is a good time to review earthquake readiness: to refresh that bottled water in the garage, recharge the flashlights, and check the plans be on our own for a week or so. Imagine life without Power or Water for a week. Plan alternatives for family members who could become separated from each other, too. This quake left us with much to think about... and now is the time to renew the preparations (and replace the batteries in the smoke alarms and stockpiles, while we are at it). Along with coping with these natural disasters, we are also preparing for terrorist acts - which could leave people on their own for a few days as things get sorted out, and the power gets restored...