New Madrid Quake Felt by Many West of Poplar Bluff

The New Madrid Fault has proven once again that it's full of surprises. A measurable quake that was felt by many has just been confirmed by the USGS west of Poplar Bluff.

The Midwest has been rocking today. Just as we were trying to figure out why southeastern Illinois was shaken by a 3.5 magnitude quake during the early morning hours of Monday, the USGS has confirmed an earthquake happened at 10:41pm Monday night just west of Poplar Bluff south of I-60.

Infographic, USGS

It wasn't large at all, but this 2.9 magnitude quake wasn't tiny either and even though this happened relatively late at night, there are many who reported to the USGS that they felt the quake.

Infographic, USGS

Was the New Madrid Fault responsible for both measurable quakes Monday?

The answer isn't 100% clear, but probably not. The Illinois quake earlier today was located near what is considered the Wabash Valley Seismic Zone which is northeast of the New Madrid Fault. Both earthquake faults are believed to be capable of magnitude 7 or higher, but the New Madrid Fault is the region most often mentioned when potential major Midwestern quakes are discussed.

Does Monday's seismic activity mean a major quake is likely?

It's a complicated answer. My first response is no way because minor quakes happen in the region often, but these tremors are a good reminder that both faults are unpredictable. It's entirely possible a major quake won't happen for 30 years or it could happen tomorrow. That's why I encourage everyone to be prepared and have an emergency plan. Let's hope the Monday quakes in Missouri and Illinois are just isolated events and not foreshocks. That's the most likely answer, but be ready if they're not.