How common is an earthquake in Alabama?

A 2.4 magnitude earthquake was recorded late Monday night in Walker County. Earthquakes occur more often than you may think.According to the U.S. Geological Survey, there are four seismic zones that affect Alabama. Seismic activity Most earthquakes that reach Alabama are associated with the Southern Appalachian Seismic Zone. This is a moderate zone for earthquake frequency, some of the more notable zones are out west near the San Andreas Fault running through California. Still, earthquakes are not uncommon in Alabama. Since 1886, more than 400 earthquakes have been recorded in the state. Typically earthquakes only with a magnitude of 3.0 or higher can be felt. Most earthquakes in Alabama are weak. The last time an earthquake reached a magnitude of 4.0 or higher in Alabama was in 2004. Historical Earthquakes The largest known earthquake in Alabama happened in 1916 in northern Shelby County. Geologists estimate the magnitude to be near 5.1. On April 29, 2003, a 4.9 magnitude earthquake occurred in Dekalb County, 10 miles northeast of Fort Payne. It was deep enough to prevent significant damage. The second largest on record happened in Escambia in October 1997. This one was also of 4.9 magnitude. >> USGS ON EARTHQUAKES: Fact or fiction How does an earthquake happen?The earth's crust contains tectonic plates that are constantly moving. They often get stuck at their edges due to friction. The surface where they slip is called the fault. When the stress on the edge overcomes the friction, energy is released through seismic waves that travel through the earth's crust. The ground shakes, and we call it an earthquake. For the latest news, weather, and traffic, watch WVTM 13 News.Don't forget to follow us on Facebook, X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram.