Following an increase in drilling and fracking activity by petrochemical companies, more than three million Americans are at risk from human-induced earthquakes this year. While we may immediately think of California as the culprit, you might be surprised to hear that most of these citizens reside in Oklahoma and Kansas.
Man-Made Earthquakes
According to USA Today, a new report cites that wastewater disposal from fracking has triggered the majority of these man-made earthquakes. Luckily, the number has decreased from last year, where a staggering seven millions Americans were at risk. The United States Geologic Survey said that the change was likely caused by a decrease in wastewater injection practices thanks to new regulations governing its disposal. The drop could also be the result of lower oil prices and less overall production of petroleum and natural gas via fracking methods.
Despite the decrease from the following year, earthquakes in the American Midwest are definitely a cause for concern. A town in Oklahoma was rocked by a 5.8 magnitude earthquake, the largest the state has ever recorded. The state also logged the highest number of large earthquakes (magnitude 4 or greater) and even experienced 70 quakes over the course of a single week.
Devastating Potential
Severe earthquakes in Oklahoma and Kansas are unlike those on the West Coast and in California. Historically, they are very unusual and have the potential to be much more devastating and significant. Buildings, homes, bridges, sewage systems, gas lines, and other forms of infrastructure in these Midwest regions were not designed or built to survive a severe earthquake. If a large tremor were to strike, it could cause incredible damage and loss of life due to collapsing buildings and bridges, crumbling homes, and widespread fires due to broken gas lines.
Although there has been progress in regulating the fracking and petrochemical industries and reducing the number of man-made earthquakes, this is still a serious issue that requires serious attention.
Protection with US Safe Room
If you fear that your family is at risk of being caught in a sudden earthquake, take safety into your own hands with a safe room or storm shelter from US Safe Room. We offer a wide selection of structures to protect your family from severe weather, tornadoes, earthquakes, criminal activity, and so much more. All of our safe rooms and storm shelters are built entirely with American-sourced steel and feature our exclusive multi-point locking door for added security. For more information and to learn which type of safe room or storm shelter is right for you, give us a call today and speak with one of our expert representatives.
When disaster strikes your home, you’ll be glad you called US Safe Room.
