Puente Hills fault poses bigger earthquake threat than the San Andreas

Recent studies suggest that the Puente Hills fault in Southern California may pose a greater earthquake risk than the infamous San Andreas fault.

The Puente Hills fault, which runs through densely populated areas of Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino counties, was previously thought to be less active than the San Andreas fault. However, new research indicates that the Puente Hills fault may actually be capable of producing larger and more frequent earthquakes.

What makes the Puente Hills fault so dangerous?

There are several factors that make the Puente Hills fault particularly dangerous: *

Its proximity to major population centers: The Puente Hills fault runs through some of the most densely populated areas of Southern California, including the cities of Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and Anaheim. *

Its length: The Puente Hills fault is a relatively short fault, but it is still capable of producing large earthquakes. In fact, a magnitude 7.5 earthquake on the Puente Hills fault could cause widespread damage and loss of life.

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Its history of earthquakes: The Puente Hills fault has a long history of producing earthquakes, including several large earthquakes in the past century. The most recent major earthquake on the Puente Hills fault occurred in 1933 and had a magnitude of 6.4. *

The potential for a large earthquake: Scientists believe that the Puente Hills fault is capable of producing a magnitude 7.5 earthquake or larger. This type of earthquake could cause widespread damage and loss of life throughout Southern California.