It happened in Marion County, Arkansas just after midnight very early in the morning on Saturday, January 2nd, 2025.
A 2.0 magnitude earthquake struck just 16 km from Bull Shoals, Arkansas, early Saturday morning. That’s about 22 minutes from Mountain Home, Arkansas.
Small Earthquake Reported Near Arkansas Border
The event occurred at 12:07 AM CST, with the epicenter 14 km ENE of South Lead Hill.
According to the USGS, the quake was reviewed by a seismologist and classified as magnitude type md.
One person in the public also reported the incident, indicating that this was not just recorded by seismologists. It was noticeable to the public as well.
How Do Earthquake Magnitudes Work?
The effects of earthquakes vary greatly with their magnitude. Earthquakes with magnitudes below 3 are generally not felt by people and cause no damage.
However, as magnitude increases, so does the potential for destruction. Earthquakes in the range of 4 to 5 can cause moderate damage, particularly in areas with poor construction standards or on soft soil.
Magnitudes between 6 and 7 can lead to considerable damage in populated areas, while earthquakes of 8 or above, classified as “great”, can cause widespread devastation and even trigger tsunamis.
Here’s a list of earthquake magnitudes and their typical effects, according to United States Geological Survey:
- Magnitude 1.0-3.0: Often not felt, but can be recorded by seismographs. However, you still may feel them.
- Magnitude 3.0-3.9: Noticeable by people indoors, especially on upper floors, but causes no damage.
- Magnitude 4.0-4.9: Felt by most people; slight damage possible in poorly constructed buildings.
- Magnitude 5.0-5.9: Can cause moderate damage to buildings and structures, particularly in vulnerable areas.
- Magnitude 6.0-6.9: Can be destructive in areas where people live, with some damage over larger areas.
- Magnitude 7.0-7.9: Major earthquake, serious damage over larger areas; can trigger tsunamis.
- Magnitude 8.0 and higher: Great earthquake; can cause massive destruction and widespread tsunamis.
