SCI/TECH: Scientists raise Iran earthquake magnitude to 6.8

The earthquake that struck the Iranian city of Bam on 12/26 has been recalculated to a 6.8 magnitude tremblor and determined to have its epicenter directly below the city.



Originally recorded as a 6.3 magnitude quake, the recalculation comes as data from 18 seismic monitoring stations was further analyzed. Twelve other monitoring stations have yet to be uncovered from the rubble. An estimated 30,000 people have died, and officials expect fatalities to reach as high as 50,000.

[Edited on 1-1-2004 by SkepticOverlord]

Hrmm, a very intriguing story Banshee, it really makes you think about the culture difference when California is struck by an earthquake of relatively the same size and only one person dies.

The event serves as an unfortunate example when proving the gap between rich and poor.

Bam Hit by 29 Aftershocks

The historic Iranian city of Bam has been rocked by 29 significant aftershocks in the week since it was almost levelled by a major earthquake ... all measured 3.0 or more on the Richter scale.
The aftershocks have merely added to the massive damage already sustained by the ancient fortress city.

Also,

Iran Asks, "Why Are Our Earthquakes So Deadly?"

Poor design, primitive materials and widely ignored building codes were prime causes of the high death rate in the Bam earthquake, Iranian officials and foreign experts said on Tuesday.
The type of construction is totally different. There are building codes here but they are not followed. The laws are there, but only in theory. No one pays any attention. No authorities control construction.
President Mohammad Khatami said there would be an inquiry and anyone who had violated state codes would be punished. Two hospitals, a prison and other state buildings collapsed or were badly damaged.