California claims readiness for major quake, but experts warn gaps remain

State representatives assert that California is equipped to respond to a major earthquake, citing more than $125 million invested in early-warning technology, community grants for seismic risk reduction, and increased emergency-response personnel. The Office of Emergency Services also emphasizes ongoing retrofits of critical infrastructure, upgraded communications and specialized search-and-rescue capabilities. Despite these measures, Caltech seismologist Allen Husker says the state is better prepared than before but cautions that the epicenter’s proximity and quake severity could still cause extensive damage, especially if it occurs beneath densely populated areas.

Edward Ring, director of water and energy policy at the California Policy Center, warns that Los Angeles’ water distribution system—over 30 % of its 6,800-mile mains are older than 80 years—may fail during shaking, complicating fire-suppression efforts. With more than 700 named active faults statewide and over 300 in Southern California capable of magnitude-6 or larger events, the danger is not limited to the San Andreas Fault. Experts agree that while preparedness has improved, the true test will come when the ground actually moves.