Oklahoma's Shaky Side: How Often Does the Ground Go Boom?
Let's face it, earthquakes aren't exactly Oklahoma's claim to fame. We've got tornadoes that can yoink your house into Oz, but earthquakes? Seems a little out of place, like a bison wearing roller skates.
But here's the thing: Oklahoma does experience earthquakes, and depending on who you ask, it can sound like the state's become a seismic disco ball.
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| How Often Do Earthquakes Occur In Oklahoma |
The History: From Sleepy to Shaky
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Before 2009, Oklahoma's earthquake life was pretty chill. We'd maybe get a tremor or two a year, barely enough to rattle a loose picture frame. But then, things got a little more lively. The number of earthquakes jumped like a bullfrog on a hot tin roof, with hundreds happening annually.
Why the Sudden Uptick?
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Scientists, ever the earthquake wranglers, looked into this surge. Turns out, it seems like human activity might be playing a part. The culprit? Wastewater disposal from oil and gas production. Basically, all that extra fluid underground may be putting pressure on faults, like a toddler jumping on a wobbly bed.
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So, How Often Are We Talking Now?
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Here's where it gets interesting.
- Officially Feeling It: The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) might tell you there are only a handful of felt earthquakes each year (those strong enough you notice).
- The Full Picture: But Oklahoma has a denser seismic network, so the Oklahoma Geological Survey (OGS) can pick up on smaller tremors. They estimate there could be around 50 earthquakes a year, though most are minor.
The Bottom Line
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Oklahoma isn't exactly on the San Andreas Fault, but earthquakes do happen. The good news? Most are small and unlikely to cause any damage.
How To Earthquake Like a Pro (Because Apparently That's a Thing Now)
- How to Prepare: Be earthquake aware! Have a plan, get an earthquake kit, and secure loose items in your home.
- How to Stay Calm: If the earth starts moving, stay calm! Drop, cover, and hold on under sturdy furniture.
- How to Check for Damage: After the shaking stops, check for injuries and damage.
- How to Report Damage: If there's damage, report it to the authorities.
- How to Get Help: Need help preparing or recovering? Contact your local emergency management office.
Remember, a little preparedness goes a long way. So, stay informed, stay safe, and who knows, maybe you'll even get a story to tell about the time the ground went a little funky in Oklahoma.
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