Which major earthquake struck San Francisco in 1906?

The major earthquake that struck San Francisco in 1906 is widely known as the San Francisco Earthquake. This catastrophic event occurred on April 18, 1906, and is one of the most significant earthquakes in American history. It had a magnitude estimated between 7.7 and 7.9 and caused widespread destruction throughout the city. The earthquake itself was followed by devastating fires that lasted for several days, contributing to the extensive damage.

The San Francisco Earthquake had profound effects on the development of earthquake science and engineering, leading to improvements in building codes and emergency preparedness. The impact of the 1906 earthquake is still studied today for its historical significance and lessons learned regarding urban disaster management.

Other earthquakes mentioned, such as the Northridge Earthquake, occurred much later in 1994; the Loma Prieta Earthquake occurred in 1989; and the Hayward Earthquake is noted for its potential threat but is not specifically tied to the events of 1906. Therefore, recognizing the 1906 event as the San Francisco Earthquake is essential for understanding California's geological and cultural history.