The New Madrid Fault Zone is any area of great concern, do to it’s potential for large earthquakes. There is the potential of earthquakes of long duration with this area. Here is a history to familiarize yourself with this fault zone:
Missouri is known to have large earthquakes in swarms as shown .
Here is a good map and accompanying information on the frequency and magnitude of earthquakes in this area dating back to the 1800s.
Here is a video explaining the historical events of the 1811-1812 earthquake activity
This is a good video explanation of how the fault zone is made up
I have heard scientist say that the New Madrid Fault Zone was a large ice cube during the last ice age and melted into the aquifer that so many people in that area have enjoyed water from for so long. The melting of this mammoth ice cube, relaxed the area, causing movement in the surrounding ground. Since frozen water expands, when it melts the area relaxes inward.
This aquifer does not replenish itself like others due, and as it is being depleted. The ground around it is becoming more unstable and may collapse in on itself. I believe that we are on the verge of seeing a gigantic geological sinkhole form. I believe this fault zone area is more of a geological flaw zone. This is unstable ground and many of the older buildings in this area are not built to withstand strong shaking for long periods of time. Some of the earthquakes in the 1811-1812 event, lasted for months.
If you live in this area, beware and prepare…with Dave
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