Seismic survey looking for Spokane faults

Published 3:07 pm Saturday, June 23, 2012

SPOKANE — Scientists from the U. S. Geological Survey and University of Washington are conducting a seismic survey in downtown Spokane this weekend.

They’re using a vibrating trailer to send sound waves as deep as a mile underground. The echoes are recorded to create a picture similar to a medical sonogram. The picture may show shallow faults that could cause earthquakes.

The scientists say the vibrations are harmless and can’t be felt except by those standing near the trailer.

The three-day survey continues through Sunday along a mile-and-a-half stretch of roads — E. Baldwin and W. Shannon Avenues.