However, detecting an earthquake and issuing a warning can be accomplished when there is the will to do so. This article on earthquake prediction is really more about detection and dissemination of the warning. It does provide a quick layperson summary of how the Japanese system works today and worked in their recent quake.
I have to say that it is irritating to me that we here in the USA have the same technological abilities, but not the political will to protect our people and infrastructure. The article points out that California may get such as system, inaccurately accentuating once again that it is the only state in the union with an earthquake hazard.
An earthquake warning system would be ideal for the Cascadia Subduction Zone that runs from British Columbia off the coasts of Washington, Oregon and Northern California. If it ruptured it would be the perfect candidate because of its length and for providing warning to the people and organizations that run the gamut of the fault zone.
Here's my post Japan earthquake "Prediction." Congressional hearings will be held. Funding will be provided post hast to make the California warning system a reality. Nothing will be done outside of the confines of the State of California. Wanna place a bet?
