LAWRENCE CO. – Lawrence County Emergency Management Director Valerie Luchauer briefed the Lawrence County Commissioners on Tuesday morning about her participation in a virtual earthquake exercise. The exercise, aimed at preparing local officials for potential seismic events, highlighted the catastrophic impact an earthquake could have on the region.
Luchauer emphasized the importance of preparedness: “Hopefully, we will never have to face an earthquake. It would be catastrophic.”
The First Assembly of God Church will serve as a distribution center.
The potentially devastating effects of an earthquake similar to the New Madrid earthquakes of 1811-1812 could cause widespread damage across at least eight states if they were to recur today.
“The damage would be significant to buildings, transportation, and critical infrastructure and would lead to both loss of life and severe economic disruption,” Luchauer warned.
The exercise reminds us of the need for ongoing preparedness and the importance of planning for a range of natural disasters, including earthquakes. Luchauer’s participation underscores the county’s commitment to being proactive in its disaster readiness efforts.
