California Valley Imperail

The California valley earthquake took nine lives and caused property damage estimated 6million dollars. The first shock damaged about 80 percent of the buildings in Imperail. Four people were killed in the collapse of the grocery store. Elevated water tanks at Holtville and Imperail collapsed, and water tank was damaged. About half of the business structures had to be condemned. Many breaks in water mains occurred and water pipes were broken.

Damage to the structures and canals of the Imperail Irigation District in the United States and Mexico were widespread. Breaks occurred over almost the entire length of the Ash Canal, from Hotville to the Mexico border. There were eight major breaks, a section of the Solfaltara Canal in Baja California was destroyed South Cocopar. The earthquake demolished the New River flame. A church and schoolhouse built on stilts were knocked down and demolished.

About 155 tremor  were felt at Campo during the 12 hours following g the main shock. Aftershocks continued there every few days into April. Observers reported that 135 aftershocks were felt as far away as National City, on San Diego Bay. One report stated that the tremor was felt at Visalia, Tolare County, about 700 kilometers north of San Quintin. The earthquake happened on May 18, 1940 at 8:37 pm. It's Magnitude was 6.9. 

                      

                                    -Dr.Claire