Caring for Northridge Earthquake Victims
4:30:55 a.m., January 17, 1994
The Northridge Earthquake struck on January 17, 1994 a.m. Although considered a "moderate," with a moment magnitude of 6.7, it was the most costly quake in United States history - and the most damaging to strike the U.S. since the San Francisco quake of 1906.
The Guinness Book of World Records rates the earthquake at a 7.5, with damage occurring up to 52 miles away. Over 1,500 people were injured and 57 killed. The epicenter was located at the end of of Elkwood Street, just west of Baird Avenue, in the city of Reseda - less than one mile from Northridge Hospital Medical Center.
Some say it was a miracle that Northridge Hospital could be at the epicenter of the largest earthquake to hit Los Angeles in modern times - and still take care of patients. But, then at Northridge Hospital, Miracles Happen Every Day.
Earthquake Damaged Stairwell
Today, a dozen years after one of the defining moments in the hospital's history, the memories of those miracle workers - the physicians, nurses, staff and volunteers who worked tirelessly and courageously despite fear, aftershock and personal loss - are still vivid, immediate, graphic, and personal. Read how the staff rallied to evacuate 21 newborns and premature babies; and were treating the first earthquake-related victims within six minutes of the temblor.
Disaster Planning for Your Family
Disaster can strike quickly and without warning. You may have to evacuate your neighborhood or be confined you to your home. The best way to stay safe is to be prepared before disaster strikes.
Create a disaster plan. Visit our Family Safety and Emergency Prepardness page for information on being prepared for all types of emergencies. Materials include the Family Disaster Plan and Family Disaster Supply Kit developed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the American Red Cross, we have even more disaster preparation materials, including preparing for fires, mudslides, and earthquakes.
