In a major move for earthquake safety, Congress set aside $5 million to expand an early warning system that could give Californians valuable time to brace for shaking.
The system is operated by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and also extends to Oregon and Washington. It could alert the public when seismic waves are spreading so that trains can brake, utilities can be shut off and people can seek cover.
"It's very exciting," noted U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Burbank, adding that this is "life-saving technology."
This boost in funding comes as part of the $1.1 trillion spending bill approved by Congress, according to a joint statement Monday by Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., and U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Burbank.