Quake alert system launched in Oregon
A mobile phone customer looks at an earthquake warning application on an iPhone in Los Angeles recently. An earthquake early warning system operated by the U.S. Geological Survey has been activated in Oregon. (AP File Photo/Richard Vogel)
By ANDREW SELSKY
Associated Press
SALEM, Ore. (AP) People in Oregon will be better prepared for earthquakes particularly important in the Pacific Northwest because experts say “the big one” is coming as an early warning system launched Thursday, the 10th anniversary of a devastating quake and tsunami in Japan.
California already has the system, while Washington state will join in May to complete coverage of the West Coast. The ShakeAlert system operated by the U.S. Geological Survey uses seismographic sensors to detect significant earthquakes quickly so alerts reach smartphones and people can seek cover before the shaking starts.