Officials with the California Geological Survey say they hope a new seismic map that includes more than 50 new fault lines discovered over the last two decades will improve construction and earthquake preparedness.
The map, which had not been updated since 1994, was unveiled on Tuesday at The Tech Museum in San Jose. The Geological Survey also presented an updated version of a second map that identifies the makeup of rock and soil.
State geologist John Parrish said the maps can help guide decisions about where to build schools and hospitals and where construction standards need to be higher.
The 50 additional surface fault lines include some very large ones that could lead to major earthquakes.
The seismic map is the fourth to be released by the state.
