Oklahoma DOT inspects 180 bridges following strongest earthquake ever recorded in the state

Updated Sep 13, 2016
An ODOT crew uses a boom to inspect underneath a bridge in southwestern Oklahoma. Photo credit: ODOTAn ODOT crew uses a boom to inspect underneath a bridge in southwestern Oklahoma. Photo credit: ODOT

After the magnitude 5.8 earthquake rattled much of Oklahoma on September 3, 2016, the state’s Department of Transportation (ODOT) shifted into high gear to inspect 180 state bridges within a 30-mile radius of Pawnee, the epicenter of the earthquake.

According to a department release, ODOT completed the inspection in less than six hours, finding only minor cosmetic damage on two bridges and reported that all bridges on the state highway and turnpike system were open to traffic and safe for travel.

“We are pleased with the speed and efficiency of our crews in their response to this event and dedication to ensuring public safety,” Mike Patterson, ODOT executive director, said in the press release. “We offered bridge inspection assistance to cities and counties within the 30-mile radius, and in a few instances, our offer was accepted.”

The department recently developed an earthquake inspection policy and manual that begins with a 5-mile inspection radius on a 4.7 magnitude earthquake. Bridges are designed to withstand a certain amount of vibrations, but a 5.6 magnitude is one of the strongest earthquakes the state has experienced, so ODOT will continue to be alert and ready to perform inspections if aftershocks or other earthquakes hit.