MT 6: CALIFORNIA GEOLOGY LT 1: Natural Hazards

Why are we studying CA Geology? We live in California and it is a state standard. California has major, unique geological features and history. California is located on the west coast of the United States. The United States is part of the North American continent.

The North American plate meets the Pacific plate directly under the crust of our state. California is in a zone of major plate movement and activity. California was formed as a result of this tectonic plate movement for thousands of years. Also California has been carved from wind, water, ice, and erosion on the surface of the Earth to form our unique landscape.

So what is the unique landscape of California? Very tall and large mountain range called the Sierra Nevada Range. Large Eastern deserts. Located directly in contact with the largest ocean in the world called the Pacific Ocean. Northern California is cooler and receives more precipitation. Southern California is warmer and receives less precipitation.

CA Natural Hazards The most dangerous events and natural hazards that result from them for different areas of Ca are Storms Earthquakes Volcanoes

CA: Natural Hazards What is the importance? Natural hazards can cause damage and endanger human life

CA Natural Hazards Storms (excess of Precipitation) -Winter storms typically bring rain to lower elevations and snow to the mountains. -Two main storm-related hazards in California are mudflows and flooding.

CA Natural Hazards Earthquakes -When Californian’s thinks of Natural Hazards, Earthquakes are the first to come in mind. -Hundreds of earthquakes occur each day in California. -But the stronger Earthquakes, especially quakes with a magnitude of 5 or higher can be dangerous.

CA Natural Hazards Volcanoes Many are surprised to learn that parts of the state are at risk from volcano‘s.

WHICH HAZARD DO YOU THINK EFFECTS YOU THE MOST?