Crandon, WI – In an unusual event for the region, the Crandon area in northern Wisconsin experienced a magnitude 2.5 earthquake on Sunday morning, as confirmed by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). While such earthquakes are typically not felt, the Forest County Sheriff’s Office received numerous calls reporting unusual shaking and vibrations.
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Epicenter and Intensity
The earthquake’s epicenter was located approximately 4 kilometers, or about two and a half miles, northeast of Mole Lake. Earthquakes with a magnitude of 2.5 or lower are generally not perceptible to humans but can be recorded by seismographs. This seismic event, however, had residents of the Crandon area reaching out to authorities.
Local Impact and Resident Reactions
The Forest County Sheriff’s Office took to Facebook to address the concerns of the community, stating that it had received “multiple calls regarding an abnormally excessive shaking/vibration coming from the ground.” Residents described the shaking as unusual, with reports of houses vibrating and rumbling. Some even compared the noise to thunder or a large plow truck passing by.
As of noon on Sunday, 66 citizens reported to the USGS that they felt the earthquake. Fortunately, the majority categorized the intensity in the lower ranges, from about a one to a four on a ten-point scale. Such rankings indicate weak or light shaking, with no significant damage reported.
Wisconsin’s Seismic History and Preparedness
While Wisconsin is not commonly associated with earthquakes, it does experience occasional seismic activity. The state has witnessed tremors, including a mini-quake beneath Waupaca County in 2012. Typically, Wisconsin is more likely to feel the effects of earthquakes originating in nearby states like Illinois or those occurring in Lake Michigan.
The largest historical earthquake in Wisconsin dates back to 1947, although it went unrecorded by seismographs. This recent event in the Crandon area serves as a reminder that seismic activity can occur even in regions not traditionally associated with earthquakes.
Safety Measures and Preparedness
In the wake of the earthquake, local authorities are urging residents to stay informed about earthquake preparedness and safety measures. While the recent earthquake caused minimal impact, it serves as a reminder that being prepared can make a significant difference in mitigating potential risks.
Residents are advised to secure heavy furniture and objects, create emergency plans, and assemble emergency supply kits. Additionally, it’s crucial for community members to stay informed about local seismic activities and follow any guidelines provided by relevant authorities.
Conclusion
The magnitude 2.5 earthquake in the Crandon area has sparked conversations about seismic activity in Wisconsin. While the event itself did not result in significant damage, it serves as a valuable opportunity for residents and local authorities to review and enhance their earthquake preparedness measures. As the community regains its composure, focus now turns to ensuring the region is well-equipped to handle any future seismic events.
