On October 19, the Great Central U. S. “ShakeOut” earthquake drill will be held. More than 440,000 Missourians have registered to participate.
Almost 2.5 million people are registered in the 14 central U.S. states that could be impacted by a New Madrid Seismic Zone earthquake.
At exactly 10:19 am Thursday, participants will be expected to: DROP to hands and knees, COVER heads and necks with their hands and arms under a table or desk if possible; and HOLD ON until the shaking stops.
Experts say “Drop, Cover, Hold On” is the best way to protect oneself from falling debris, which is the most likely cause of injury during an earthquake.
There’s still time to sign up at www.shakeout.org/centralus.
Once registered, participants receive details on the drill, as well as information on earthquake preparedness and safety. Individuals, families, businesses, schools and other organizations can register. They also can participate on another day if Oct. 19 is not convenient.
In 1811 and 1812, the New Madrid Seismic Zone, centered in southeast Missouri, produced some of the largest earthquakes ever in the continental U.S. A major earthquake in this area could result in damage in much of southern and eastern Missouri. Geologists say there’s a 7 to 10 percent chance of another major earthquake occurring in a fifty-year time period.
