Small Earthquake Occurs Near Clinton, Indiana, With No Reported Damage
A small earthquake registered at magnitude 2.0 occurred near Clinton, IN, reported by USGS. It took place at 10:30 p.m. Thursday with no damages reported, and was classified as a microearthquake, generally not felt by people.
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has reported that a small earthquake occurred near Clinton, Indiana, on Thursday at approximately 10:30 p.m. The seismic event registered a magnitude of 2.0 and was located about 1.5 miles northwest of Clinton in Vermillion County. According to Mark O’Heir, the director of Vermillion County emergency management, there have been no reports of damages associated with the earthquake, which had a depth of 4.2 miles. O’Heir indicated he learned about the tremor only after being contacted by the media, and Vermillion County dispatch stated that there were no official reports regarding the earthquake as of late Friday morning, although there may have been informal reports from citizens. The USGS classifies earthquakes of this magnitude as microearthquakes, typically unnoticed by the general populace and primarily recorded by local seismographs. Furthermore, information about this occurrence has been shared by Concerned Citizens Against Wabash Valley Resources, an organization opposed to a carbon sequestration project affecting both Vermillion and Vigo counties.
Seismology is the scientific study of earthquakes and related phenomena, which helps in understanding and monitoring seismic activity across various regions. Earthquakes, particularly those of smaller magnitudes, are common and serve as a reminder of the earth’s dynamic nature. Microearthquakes, generally defined as having a magnitude of 2.0 or less, are typically not perceptible to humans and may only be detected by sensitive instruments. Such occurrences can raise awareness about local geological conditions while serving as an impetus for fostering community dialogues regarding geological safety and environmental protection initiatives, such as those opposed by Concerned Citizens Against Wabash Valley Resources.
In summary, the small earthquake near Clinton, Indiana, was recorded at a magnitude of 2.0 by the USGS, occurring at a depth of 4.2 miles with no reported damages. Local authorities were mostly unaware of the event until media inquiries, underscoring the nature of microearthquakes that often go unnoticed by residents. Such events contribute to ongoing discussions regarding seismic safety and environmental policies in the region.
Original Source: www.tribstar.com