Alabama Officials Warn of Increased Earthquake Risk

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Alabama officials are warning residents to prepare for the possibility of a major earthquake after the state experienced 16 earthquakes over the past year, including a 3.0 magnitude quake in Double Springs and a 2.5 magnitude quake in Talladega. Experts say the region, stretching from Alabama up through Missouri, is on a dangerous earthquake fault line and are urging residents to learn earthquake safety procedures like "drop, cover, and hold on."

Why it matters

Alabama has seen a significant increase in earthquake activity in recent years, raising concerns about the potential for a destructive quake. With over 2 million residents participating in earthquake safety drills last year, officials are taking the threat seriously and want to ensure the public is prepared.

The details

According to the group responsible for tracking worldwide seismic activity, there have been 16 earthquakes in Alabama over the past 12 months, a notable increase from previous years. The most recent quakes include a 3.0 magnitude tremor in Double Springs and a 2.5 magnitude quake in Talladega. Experts warn that Alabama, along with the surrounding Midwest region, sits on a dangerous earthquake fault line and could be at risk of a major, potentially devastating quake.

• Over the past 12 months, Alabama has experienced 16 earthquakes.
• A 3.0 magnitude earthquake occurred in Double Springs, Alabama 3 weeks ago.
• A 2.5 magnitude earthquake occurred in Talladega, Alabama 3 months ago.

What’s next

The group that monitors geological activity warns that Alabama, up through Missouri, is on a dangerous earthquake fault line and could be at risk of a major quake. Officials are urging residents to participate in earthquake safety drills and prepare their homes and families.