Missouri Will Soon Simulate the Most Damaging Quake in History

Missouri is preparing for the inevitable. Someday, the region is likely to experience the most damaging quake in American history and the middle of the country is about to simulate what that might be like.

Many don't realize that when it comes to the strongest earthquakes in American history for the continental US, it's not California that holds the title, but Missouri. Only Alaska has had a larger quake than Missouri. That's one reason why Missouri will be the focal point for the upcoming Great Central US Shakeout which will happen at 10:17am on October 17, 2024.

As of this writing, 1.6 million people are registered to simulate what the response would need to be in the event of a major New Madrid Fault earthquake. It's interesting on the frequently asked questions part of the Great Central US Shakeout, they have to point out that they're NOT predicting a New Madrid earthquake on October 17, it's only a drill.

A major New Madrid shaker would likely be the most costly in American history with the metro areas of Memphis, Tennessee, Little Rock, Arkansas and St. Louis, Missouri likely to be devasted not to mention the numerous Mississippi River bridges and infrastructure.

You might recall the concern many in the St. Louis area had when they noticed numerous National Guard units near Busch Stadium a couple months ago when the guard ran drills for earthquake preparedness.

I have not seen reports yet about whether or not the National Guard will be participating with the earthquake drill on October 17, but don't be surprised if you see it.

Undark Magazine mentions that experts give Missourians a 25 to 40% chance of a greater than 6.0 earthquake in the next 50 years. They say there's a 1 in 10 chance of a repeat of the historic 1811 and 1812 New Madrid Quakes that were around 8 in magnitude. A major quake will take place near Missouri someday. The only question is when and this is an effort to be prepared for that day.