Memphis Residents Staying Alert: The Earthquake Discussion Continues
As folks in Memphis and the surrounding Mid-South brace for the changing fall weather, there’s a buzzing conversation about something a bit more unusualโearthquakes. Yes, you heard that right! Thanks to our location near the New Madrid Seismic Zone (NMSZ), many locals have often wondered, โWhen is the next big one going to hit us?โ
A Little Background on the NMSZ
Letโs rewind a bit. The New Madrid Seismic Zone is super active, shaking things up with around 150 earthquakes each year, though most are minor tremors that donโt even rattle your windows. Dr. Mitch Withers, an associate research professor at The Center for Earthquake Research Information (CERI) at the University of Memphis, explains that most of these earthquakes have a magnitude of less than 2.5 and go unnoticed by everyone. But he is monitoring them closely.
Understanding Earthquake Magnitudes
But what happens when thereโs a big one? Dr. Kent Moran, another expert at CERI, brings us back to the earthquake scale we often hear about: the Richter Scale. He notes that this scale is logarithmic, meaning a magnitude six earthquake is ten times stronger than a five, and a magnitude seven is a whopping 100 times stronger than a five. Yikes!
In fact, looking back at the early 1800s, there were a series of earthquakes in our area that were likely in the range of 7.7 on the Richter Scale. Dr. Moran mentions that accounts from those days describe the earth as โin continual agitation, visibly waving as a gentle sea.โ This is staggering to consider, especially when thinking about how densely populated the Mid-South is now compared to back then.
Historically Speaking
Historically, the earthquakes around New Madrid caused significant changes to the landscape, including the formation of the now-famous Reelfoot Lake. After those powerful shakes in 1811 and 1812, accounts still tell the tale of the Mississippi River flowing backwards. How wild is that?
Itโs important to note that back in the early 19th century, the area was sparsely populated, unlike today, where Memphis is brimming with residents. With considerations of our modern-day structures and population density, scientists are trying to figure out what a future quake could mean for the fast-growing area.
What Does the Future Hold?
Research has shown that seismic events of similar magnitude to those of 1811 and 1812 have occurred roughly every 500 years. With the last major actions being over 200 years ago, we might think we still have time. But hereโs where it gets trickyโearthquakes are notoriously unpredictable!
Dr. Withers shares some eye-opening statistics. The chances of experiencing a magnitude seven earthquake in the NMSZ are estimated to be 7% to 10% over the next 50 years. While it sounds low, itโs still enough to raise some eyebrows. And for those looking for a smaller quake, like a magnitude six, the odds increase significantly to 30% to 50%. Knowing this, itโs wise for the community to be aware, but not alarmed.
Staying Prepared
So, how do we prepare? Just like with the weather, it’s good to be ready for whatever is thrown your way. Dr. Withers reminds us that these percentages should influence our preparation, not our daily lives. โIf you told me the odds of it storming this afternoon are 7% to 10%, I wouldnโt grab my umbrella, but Iโd want to be aware of where it is just in case.โ
Final Thoughts
To make sure families are ready, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security offers helpful advice that everyone can follow. The Mid-South community is resilient and can navigate these discussions and preparations together as we make our home a safer place amidst the unpredictability of nature.
So, keep your ears open, your umbrellas close, and your emergency plans ready! We are all in this togetherโhere’s to staying informed and prepared in the Memphis area!
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
