Earthquakes in Nevada?

Yes, there is a history of earthquakes in Nevada. Although the faults that this earthquake occurred on were not known for earthquakes, other parts of Nevada are. A large portion of Nevada lies in Basin and Range portion of the western United States. This geological feature is the result of a former subduction zone that was present along the West Coast long ago. This area has produced not only the largest quakes in Nevada, but in the United States. The map, from USGS website, shows that most of the recent earthquakes have been concentrated along the southern portions of the state where Nevada boarders California.

One of the more spectacular earthquakes was reported in 1865, the quake actually happened in 1852 however. The account in a local newspaper describes cracks opening that spouted water 100 feet high and large landslides occurring in the Pyramid Lake region. Others serious earthquakes include a series of three in a seven hour period, the largest at a 7.75 magnitude. These did serious damage to the surrounding area and were felt for an overall area of 1,295,000 square kilometers. Other serious earthquakes include a 7.3 in 1932, a 6.5 in 1934, a 7.1 in 1954, and a handful of others significant earthquakes. A University of Nevada study counts 586 magnitude 4.0 or greater over the last 160 years. Although the Wells Earthquake is severe; it is not uncommon for the area.

Magnitude 6.0 – Nevada. (2008, February 21). Retrieved March 24, 2008, from USGS: http://earthquake.usgs.gov/eqcenter/eqinthenews/2008/us2008nsa9/#summary

~ by djaugustin85 on March 24, 2008.