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SALT LAKE CITY (AP) -- Government geologists have a clearer picture of what The Big One might look like in Utah.
The U.S. Geological Survey published new, nationwide hazard maps Monday which show that the worst-case earthquake has been elevated to a magnitude 7.4 on the 240-mile Wasatch Fault that runs from Malad, Idaho, through the state's population centers to Gunnison. The report says devastation could span several Wasatch Fault segments at once. Previous maps called for less ground shaking.
They also reveal that tall buildings probably would shake less than previously expected, but one- and two-story buildings might shake harder than thought before.
New faults have also been discovered, including one south of Tooele, one under Utah Lake and one in the Cache Valley.
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Information from: The Salt Lake Tribune
(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
