Residents near the New Madrid Fault Line were shaken by a series of minor earthquakes on Monday, according to officials from the Evansville/Vanderburgh County Emergency Management Agency in Indiana.
Seven quakes, with magnitudes ranging from 1.8 to 3.0, were recorded in southern Missouri and northern Tennessee—areas historically prone to significant seismic activity.
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) provided the following details about the quakes:
- Marston, MO: Magnitude 2.2 at 7:30 a.m.
- Howardville, MO: Magnitude 1.9 at 6:25 a.m.
- Ridgely, TN: Magnitude 1.8 at 5:31 a.m.
- Howardville, MO: Magnitude 3.0 at 4:27 a.m.
- Howardville, MO: Magnitude 2.1 at 12:27 a.m.
- Matthews, MO: Magnitude 2.2 at 12:08 a.m.
- Hayward, MO: Magnitude 2.0 at 12:00 a.m.
The quakes were concentrated around the towns of Marston, Missouri, and Ridgely, Tennessee. The Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) is closely monitoring the activity and advising residents to stay informed about earthquake risks and safety measures.
A History of Seismic Activity
The New Madrid Fault Line has a long history of seismic events. In 1811 and 1812, the fault produced a series of powerful earthquakes estimated at magnitudes between 7 and 8, which caused widespread destruction along the Mississippi River.
The quakes were felt as far away as Hartford, Connecticut, and Charleston, South Carolina, and even temporarily reversed the flow of the Mississippi River.
Though the quakes on Monday were much smaller, they serve as a reminder of the fault line’s potential for larger future activity.
Earthquake Safety Recommendations
In light of the ongoing seismic activity, emergency management officials urge residents in earthquake-prone areas to take the following precautions:
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and first aid supplies.
- Secure Heavy Items: Anchor furniture and appliances to walls to prevent tipping.
- Practice “Drop, Cover, and Hold On”: Take cover under sturdy furniture during shaking and hold on until it stops.
- Create a Communication Plan: Ensure family members know how to contact each other in case of an emergency.
For further information on earthquake preparedness, visit ready.gov/earthquakes.
Monitoring Continues
Authorities continue to monitor seismic activity in the region. While Monday’s tremors caused no reported damage or injuries, the event highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and preparedness in the area.