by Phillip Manning ~ March 27th, 2014
Through March 29th, communities around the state will be conducting training and exercises to help prepare in case of a major earthquake. March 27th marks the 50th anniversary of the Good Friday Earthquake of 1964. The 1964 earthquake was measured at 9.2 on the Richter Scale, making it the most powerful ever recorded in North America.
In the Mat-Su Borough, activities will largely center around the core area of the Valley, including Wasilla and Palmer. Casey Cook, Emergency Manager for the Borough, says that anyone near Mat-Su Regional or the Palmer fairgrounds could see National Guard personnel, helicopters, or volunteers with fake injuries playing the role of victims. He says that Valley residents should not be alarmed if they see the drills being conducted.
Casey Cook adds that the anniversary should also serve as a reminder for Borough residents to be prepared with supplies and a plan in the event that another “big one” strikes Southcentral Alaska.