A major earthquake is not a matter of “if,” but “when.” This is a reality we confront daily in our work at Miyamoto International. The recent 8.8 magnitude earthquake that struck off the coast of Russia is a stark reminder of the ever-present seismic threats that communities face worldwide. While the remote location of this particular quake spared lives, it begs a critical question: how prepared are we if a similar event were to strike closer to home?
This very question was the focus of a recent, crucial conversation on NPR’s “All Things Considered.” Host Mary Louise Kelly spoke with our CEO, Dr. H. Kit Miyamoto, to assess the United States’ readiness for a major earthquake or an ensuing tsunami.
The discussion moved beyond simply acknowledging the danger. It explored the tangible, and sometimes uncomfortable, realities of our current state of preparedness. As structural engineers who have worked in the aftermath of the world’s most devastating earthquakes, we know that true resilience is built long before the ground starts to shake. It is forged through proactive engineering, robust building codes, and a deep, societal commitment to protecting our infrastructure and our people.
In the interview, Dr. Miyamoto shares his perspective on the lessons we have learned from past disasters and, more importantly, the lessons we have yet to implement. It’s an honest look at where we are vulnerable and what steps are necessary to move from a reactive to a proactive stance on seismic safety.
This isn’t just a conversation for engineers or policymakers. It’s for every individual, every family, and every business that calls a seismically active region home. We invite you to listen to this important discussion. Understanding the risks is the first step toward building a safer, more resilient future for us all.
