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The 7.0 magnitude earthquake that hit Anchorage, Alaska, in November 2018 highlights the importance of building codes in saving lives, protecting property, and contributing to a rapid post-disaster recovery. According to a statement by the International Code Council (ICC), the earthquake did not result in any collapsed buildings, widespread damage to infrastructure, or loss of life, partially due to the strong building codes the state adopts.
In the aftermath of the Alaska earthquake, state and federal leaders are speaking out about the importance of strong building codes.
Anchorage Mayor Ethan Berkowitz credited building codes for minimizing structural damage and said, “Considering the scale of earthquake, the extent of damage was relatively small.”
After assessing the minor damage to his own home, Governor Bill Walker praised the state’s building codes and said, “Building codes mean something.”
Senator Lisa Murkowski said, “We have worked as communities in our state to be prepared for disasters when they should come. We have some of the most stringent building codes in the world, and for the most part, our buildings held up.”
