How are scientists trying to prevent another similar disaster like the 1906 Fransancisco earthquake?

Answer 1

Since then the science and technology of earthquake monitoring and detection has greatly improved. Seismographs are used to detect tremors in the earth crust from tectonic movements, and many stations on land, especially near faults, form extensive earthquake detection systems. Tsunameter stations may also be established near marine fault zones that measure changes in water pressure at great depths, a common symptom of the proximal earthquakes. Tsunameters report evidence of passing tsunamis via satellite to nearby Tsunami Warning Centers and the Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory. Scientists working there compare information regarding the earthquakes that spawned the tsunami with the data from the Tsunameters to disseminate warnings to threatened coastal areas.

Most of the buildings in California especially near earthquake-prone zones along fault lines are constructed in ways that enable them to withstand earthquakes much better. The government has established building codes to enforce this. The government has also introduced various guidelines to citizens to give them advice on earthquake awareness and other measures, such as establishing gathering spots for earthquakes etc.

There are also numerous emerging technologies most of which involve remote sensing technologies. Some examples are satellites with advanced imagery and detection technology, which will have on them a series of instruments developed for this specific use. Radiation is emitted weeks prior to earthquakes, in the form of infrared radiation and also Extremely Low Frequency radiation. IR and ELF imaging technology could be used to continuously monitor tectonic movement, and based on trends developed and recognized over time, accurately predict the occurrence of an earthquake. Other technologies: superconducting antennae and solenoid coils; advanced radar and infrared cameras; advanced interferometric synthetic aperture radar...