update
A second earthquake is now happening. Aftershock. Oddly enough, the aftershock is more unnerving.
It was a 4.6.
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I'm still groggy, I'm still not sure, but we may have had a significant earthquake here in St. Louis. More when I have more info.
update There was an earthquake, with a magnitude of 5.4 5.2, in Illinois, approximately 204 km (127 miles) from St. Louis.
The news here says earthquake. It was even felt in Michigan. Fortunately, there was little damage all around.
As I'm sure you're aware, there was the great New Madrid series of earthquakes: http://hsv.com/genlintr/newmadrd/
Yeah, folks in this area get a little anxious during earthquakes. Plus, most of our buildings are old, and brick.
We also have different soil and foundation types here than on the coast — harder rock, which increases the vibration. A 5.2 here is not the same as a 5.2 in Seattle, Alaska, or California. However, we don't have tsunami threats.
Thanks to all those who have contributed to the discussion. Comments are now closed, but you can contact the author of the post directly.
