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Northridge quake: It changed the way scientists, government prep for Big One
The 6.7 quake in 1994 revealed crucial information for experts and residents to get ready next time
When the Northridge earthquake struck the San Fernando Valley in the early hours of Jan. 17, 1994, Craig Renetzky and his family were asleep at home in Reseda three miles from the quake’s epicenter. As walls and windows in their condominium shook, his wife jumped out of bed to check on the baby — who remained peacefully asleep throughout the intense quake.
As Renetzky inspected his home after the temblor — finding broken glass and debris scattered across the floor — he realized the massive quake had made his home uninhabitable.