The New Madrid fault zone, which unleashed the worst earthquake in U.S. history in 1811-1812, which create a lake (Reelfoot Lake) as part of its effects, is according to analysis, still active.
New Madrid fault zone alive and active
Previous studies have suggested that it may be shutting down, based on GPS readings that showed little strain accumulation at the surface. Other research came to the same conclusion by blaming ongoing quake activity on aftershocks from the 1800s, which would essentially relieve strain on the fault.And if you're interested in Reelfoot Lake, it's reportedly a great place to fish.
The latest study suggests otherwise. Hough and USGS geophysicist Morgan Page in Pasadena, Calif., analyzed past quakes in the New Madrid region and used computer modeling to determine that the continuing tremors are not related to the big quakes two centuries ago.
"Our new results tell us that something is going on there, and therefore a repeat of the 1811-1812 sequence is possible," Hough said.
The USGS estimates there's a 7 to 10 percent chance of that happening in the next 50 years.
www.reelfoot.com
If you want to visit, the nearest major city is Memphis, Tennessee.
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