Earthquakes and Natural Disasters

Almost nothing is seismically built. Earthquakes we get all the time but small ones.

Much more likely to get a hurricNe then a major earthquake.

Punta cana and the south and east coast are higher likelihood areas.

The north coast is least likely to get a major storm.

Ok I see thank you for replying. it's too bad that buildings aren't made to withstand major earthquakes cause the whole island is on top of active fault lines...

When most were built there were no guidelines.  New buildings and hotels maybe. But regs here wont be what you are used to.

Even if there were regulations the builders would not adhere to them if more expensive or time consuming.

Bob K

Yes that's true. The sad reality is that it will actually cost a lot more if constructions crumble and they have to rebuild. But I guess we're inherently short-term thinkers.

Because most of the island is sedimentary rock the force is distributed more evenly.  The pressure is relieved by hundreds of tiny tremors rather than enormous pressure  being built up.  Though in 2002 we did have a 6. something.  However the damage was minimal for  one that strong.  In fact, it threw me out of bed.  The North shore has not had a direct hit by a hurricane since the late 1960's. A little "Tormenta" can liven things up.  I do suggest keeping a watch on "Irma". We might get some heavy winds & rain.  Sleep well, it ain't here yet!

Thankfully it looks like Irma will pass well to our north.

Bob K

Fingers crossed.

Still looking north but a bit closer.

Bob K

Current law dictates that no newly constructed property will have a title granted unless it passes several inspections including a seismic test done on cylindrical sections cut from the house or condo. These measures have been put it place for decades and were strengthened after the Haiti earthquake.

Most properties are hurricane proof as well since they are built from concrete blocks.

And we all know you can rely on the building  code and inspections here!!!!

Tut, tut, tut!

Me no like the part "Inherently short term thinkers", what about where you come from. You guy's are the Swedish People of the Caribbean -_-

I meant we, as in Humans in general...