File:Aftermath of the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake From USGS.jpg

Summary
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San Francisco in ruins after earthquake. Aftermath of the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake: A close examination of the image reveals that the rough board siding, once covered by a brick veneer, has been completely dismantled from the studwall. Only the rigidity of the floor above combined with the support on the two hidden sides by continuous walls, not penetrated with large doors as on the street sides, is preventing unrecoverable collapse of the structure.

Damage to other buildings in the Loma Prieta seismic event was far more devastating, with the third floor brought down to ground level in one case. Image prepared for the seismic retrofit article.