Fault in Central Arkansas Longer Than Thought

Geologists say a fault in central Arkansas where hundreds of earthquakes have been recorded in recent months is longer and potentially more destructive than initially believed.

Scientists had thought the fault is 3.7 miles long. Now they estimate it to be 6 to 7.5 miles long.

Arkansas Geological Survey geohazard supervisor Scott Ausbrooks told the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette that the length is a concern because a longer fault could trigger bigger earthquakes.

More than 800 earthquakes have been recorded in the area in the past six months – including a 4.7 magnitude quake on Feb. 27 that was the largest earthquake recorded in Arkansas in 35 years.

Injection wells used by companies drilling for natural gas and thought to be connected to the quakes have been temporarily shut down.

Information from: Arkansas Democrat-Gazette