We do have historical data from excavations in and around faults which reveal at least a 10,000 year record in some areas. This is one reason there is concern about the southern one-third of the San Andreas, which is "due," more or less, for another shaker.

Earthquake prediction is a highly inexact science, as the people working in the field will state, both publicly and privately. Look at the recent miss at Parkfield a few years ago. Will California get severe earthquakes in the future? You bet your bippy we will. Does anyone know when? Definitely not, at least not with any accuracy that is useful.

So....Prepare, get your stuff together. Keep your first aid skills current. Check your home and workplace for hazards and hang on tight. These skills will come in handy in any number of other situations which also beset us (wildfires, freeway jams, etc).

I must admit I am a tad dismissive of the statements coming out of the Russian scientific establishment - just think of their stance on genetics.....

BTW, there is a very itneresting article in today's LA Times about seismological resarch on the San Andreas. I read it in an old fashioned paper edition delivered to my doorstep (charming custom from the last millennium); I am afraid I don't have the link.