Indiana fell victim to one of the most powerful series of earthquakes recorded in the continental United States the great New Madrid quakes of 1811-1812. The quakes even caused the Mississippi River to flow backwards, and church bells to ring in Boston. Since these great quakes, Indiana has felt the ground move many times from earthquakes which have erupted within or very near its borders. This earthquake measured 4.9 on the Richter Scale and was felt in 16 states and Canada. Damage in Indiana was reported as far north as Anderson and Indianapolis and as far south as Columbus and Scottsburg.
Earthquakes are unpredictable and strike without warning.
A destructive quake damages homes, schools, and businesses, and causes the loss of services such as natural gas, electricity, water and transportation. We don't even have to feel the shaking to be affected by the loss of daily services upon which we are so reliant. There are actions, however, that can be taken to help protect you from the devastating effects of earthquakes. By following the actions below, you can reduce the amount of damage to property and, most importantly, save lives. To shut off gas main and water, keep have a crescent and a pipe wrench available Hammer and nails, rolled plastic, screw drivers and other assorted tools.