The University of Memphis Center for Earthquake Research and Information has caused quite a shake-up nationally this month.
Since June 1, The University of Memphis center has been featured in more than 14 newspapers and television news broadcasts around the country.
Reports included the measurements of several recent mild tremors measured at The U of M's Earthquake Research Center around the country and warnings to the public that a large earthquake could be on the horizon.
WLVT in Knoxville, Tenn,. reported that findings from The University of Memphis suggested that "the New Madrid seismic zone remains under enough strain to unleash devastating earthquakes."
While Paul Bodin, University of Memphis seismology expert, agrees that a large earthquake could happen at any time, suggesting that one is imminent may be going to far.
"It is a little surprising that after we measure earthquakes in the 3.0 range we see television trucks," said Bodin.
Bodin said that he thinks media coverage of earthquakes has increased largely due to the tsunami phenomena that occurred in December.
The tsunami, triggered by a 9.15 earthquake under the Indian Ocean, killed more than 200,000 people in 13 countries.
"I think everyone has been primed for concern over earthquakes after the tsunami," said Bodin.
University of Memphis nursing major Darren Sirayathorn said that hearing about earthquakes in the news is always concerning.
"Yeah, I mean you always wonder if a major earthquake could happen," Sirayathorn said. "The more you hear about it, the more you worry about your safety."
While there has been no major evidence to support that a large earthquake is on the way, the Mid-South has seen more than its usual amount of seismic activity, Bodin said.
"It's just one of these periods that earthquakes are happening more frequently," Bodin said.
The month of June has seen three small tremors of around 4.0 in magnitude shake Tennessee, Western Kentucky and Southern Illinois.
"It is possible that the tsunami could have played a role in the increase in quakes and if evidence for that could be found, it would be interesting indeed," Bodin said.
While panicking over a major quake is not in order, being prepared is always a good idea, Bodin said.
"I've been through two major earthquakes and as long as you don't lose your head, you will usually be fine," Bodin said.
While business major John Edwards said that keeping your head in any natural disaster is a good idea, there really is not too much you can do in an earthquake.
"You really pretty much have to hold for the ride I would think," Edwards said. "So when it comes down to it, there really is not much worth worrying about."
