As if last Thursday’s magnitude 4.9 earthquake in Red River Parish wasn’t enough, that was followed by at least four other earthquakes near Coushatta, ranging in magnitude from 3.1 to 4.4. Dr. Justin Rubenstein with the U.S. Geological Survey says additional earthquakes following an initial earthquake, sometimes referred to as aftershocks, are very common.
“The initial earthquake has changed the stresses in the region, and these are sort of the region reaccommodating that stress,” Rubenstein explained.
A magnitude 4.9 is at the upper edge of what is considered to be a light earthquake with minimal damage. Dr. Rubenstein says while there may be additional aftershocks, the chances of another earthquake of that same magnitude in the near term is fairly low.
“Right now, our forecasts show that the probability of having another earthquake of that size, next week, is about one-in-six, Rubenstein said.
Rubenstein says if you do find yourself in the middle of an earthquake, there are things you can do to protect yourself.
“If you feel strong shaking, you should drop, cover and hold on. And so, get underneath a sturdy object, cover your head and hold onto that object until the shaking stops,” Rubenstein advised.
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