The January 17, 1994, Northridge Earthquake severely shook the Van Norman Complex, in the northern San Fernando Valley. Located in the nearfield, over the vicinity of the ruptured fault, the Van Norman Complex was subjected to many types of ground movements, including strong ground motions, tectonic displacements, ground deformation of natural soil deposits, and deformation of embankments and other engineered fills. The complex provides a well-documented case of how these various types of ground movements interact and their effects on engineered facilities. Throughout the complex, sand boils, liquefaction induced lateral spreading, and ground cracks were observed. Eleven water retaining embankments, including the Los Angeles Reservoir, underwent measurable movement. One small dike failed at the San Fernando Tailrace Channel at the northern end of the site. A great number of large diameter pipes and channels broke throughout the complex
