The Growing Concern of Earthquakes in Oklahoma
Oklahoma has experienced an alarming increase in earthquake activity over the past few years. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), Oklahoma had only a handful of earthquakes per year prior to 2009. However, since then, the state has seen a dramatic uptick in seismic activity. In fact, Oklahoma now has more earthquakes per year than California, making it one of the most earthquake-prone areas in the country.
What is Causing These Earthquakes?
The cause of the increased seismic activity in Oklahoma is widely believed to be linked to oil and gas drilling operations. The process of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, involves injecting fluids into the ground to release oil and gas deposits. This process can create small earthquakes, but when it is done on a large scale, it can trigger larger, more dangerous earthquakes.
How Are These Earthquakes Being Measured and Tracked?
The USGS has created an earthquake map that tracks seismic activity in Oklahoma and other parts of the country. The map shows the location and magnitude of earthquakes in real-time, allowing scientists and the public to stay informed about earthquake activity in the area.
The Impact of Earthquakes in Oklahoma
While many of the earthquakes in Oklahoma are small and go unnoticed, some have been large enough to cause damage and even injuries. In 2016, a 5.8 magnitude earthquake hit near Pawnee, Oklahoma, causing significant damage to buildings and other structures. Since then, the state has seen several other earthquakes with magnitudes over 4.0.
What Can We Do to Stay Safe During an Earthquake?
If you live in an area that is prone to earthquakes, it is important to have an emergency plan in place. This should include knowing where to go in your home or workplace to avoid falling objects, as well as having a supply of food, water, and other essentials in case of an extended emergency.
What is Being Done to Address the Issue?
The state of Oklahoma has taken steps to address the issue of earthquake activity related to oil and gas drilling. The Oklahoma Corporation Commission has implemented regulations on fracking operations, including requiring companies to reduce the amount of wastewater they inject into the ground. These efforts have helped to reduce the number of earthquakes in the state, but more work still needs to be done.
Conclusion
The increased seismic activity in Oklahoma is a cause for concern, but there are steps that can be taken to mitigate the risks. By staying informed about earthquake activity and having an emergency plan in place, we can help to keep ourselves and our communities safe. Additionally, efforts to regulate oil and gas drilling operations can help to reduce the number and severity of earthquakes in the state.