The quake intensity as per the Mercalli scale that was used at that time was between 8 and 9, which seismologists today equate to a value of 7.9 on the Richter scale. [Dr. Frank J. Collazo] the quake created a rupture of 296 miles, which rates it as one of the biggest quakes ever. Geologist John M. Clarke said, " the heavy waves travelled at the rate of about 11,000 ft a second and the lighter preliminary and subsequent waves much more rapidly, at about 40,000 feet a second." [New York Times]

With San Francisco as its epicentre, the quake took a toll of 3000 human lives and absolutely wrecked the city destroying most structures while what was left was consumed by the conflagration that ensued. The predominantly wooden structures of San Francisco was the reason for such a rapid spread of fire. [New York Times] in an attempt to...
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