![]() ![]() In light of these facts, learning about the hazards associated with earthquakes, and taking steps to plan and prepare are crucial for citizens, as well as emergency responders. The processes that produced large earthquakes in the past are still operating. The geological record of the region indicates the recurrence of major seismic events. Though there are many questions about the unique aspects of fault zones and seismic activity in the central United States, earthquake activity in Missouri is a fact. Even buildings that remain structurally sound could become unfit for occupancy due to nonstructural damage, debris, or lack of utility service. Serious damage on a wide scale could lead to protracted service interruptions in communications, water, sewage, electrical, and natural gas service and systems. In addition to structural damage to buildings, roadways, bridges, and overpasses, earthquakes also cause damage to utilities and communications system equipment, both those mounted on antennas or poles, and underground cables, lines, and pipelines. Many basic services would also be threatened. Damage to transportation systems would interrupt travel, transportation of food and commodities, and impede the movement of emergency responders. Modern society is highly dependent on man-made infrastructure. Many buildings, especially unreinforced masonry constructed before seismic engineering and modern building codes were instituted, would be highly vulnerable to damage from earthquakes. A 2.5 magnitude earthquake was recorded less than an hour after a 4.0 magnitude earthquake registered near Williamsville, Missouri on Wednesday night, November. Today, with urban development and the area much more densely populated, the impact of earthquake activity is a source of great concern. Though damage was widespread, fatalities were limited. Louis and the surrounding areas were sparsely populated. ConcernsĪ great deal has changed in the last 200 years. ![]() ![]() It is located along the southeastern Illinois / Indiana border. Wabash Valley was also the epicenter of the most recent quake to date that caused local structural damage. But it has actually been the source of the most recent earthquakes felt in St. The Wabash Valley Seismic Zone is not as well known to Missouri residents as its more famous neighbor. Today, on average there are approximately 200 quakes in the New Madrid Seismic Zone each year. Similar events have happened during the previous 900 years. Geological studies indicate that the 1811-1812 series of quakes was not an isolated occurrence. ![]()
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