1971 San Fernando Earthquake: 50th Anniversary of Devastating Event
50 Years Since the Sylmar Earthquake
On February 9, 1971, the San Gabriel foothills witnessed a catastrophic earthquake that would forever be etched in the history of Los Angeles. The "Sylmar Earthquake," also known as the 1971 San Fernando Earthquake, struck at 6:01 AM PST with a magnitude of M6.6, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake.
Aftermath and Impact
The quake claimed the lives of 64 people, injured thousands, and caused an estimated $553 million in damage. One of the most significant impacts was the collapse of the earthen Lower Van Norman Dam, which sent a torrent of water cascading down the valley.
The Sylmar Earthquake remains one of the deadliest and most destructive in Los Angeles history. It served as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of California to earthquakes and the crucial need for seismic safety measures.
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