Who Predicted the New Madrid Earthquake?

By Robert Palmer

The New Madrid earthquake is a devastating event that occurred in the central United States on December 16, 1811. It is considered one of the most powerful earthquakes to have ever hit North America. The region had never experienced such a powerful earthquake before, and it caused significant damage to the surrounding areas.

The question of who predicted the New Madrid earthquake has been a topic of discussion for many years. Some claim that there were no predictions made, while others argue that there were several individuals who predicted the occurrence of this catastrophic event.

One person who is often credited with predicting the New Madrid earthquake is John Wesley Powell. Powell was an American explorer, geologist, and ethnologist who was born in 1834. He believed that the Mississippi River valley was prone to earthquakes due to its geological history and had warned people about the possibility of an earthquake occurring in that area.

Another individual who reportedly predicted the New Madrid earthquake was John Cleves Symmes Jr. Symmes was an American Army officer and explorer who claimed that there were large hollow spheres at both poles of the Earth, which he called “polar openings.” He believed that these openings allowed for tides to move freely, causing earthquakes and volcanic eruptions around the world.

While many believe that Powell and Symmes predicted the New Madrid earthquake, there is no concrete evidence to support these claims. In fact, some experts argue that it is impossible to predict earthquakes with any degree of accuracy or certainty.

Despite this lack of evidence, it is clear that earthquakes are a natural occurrence and can happen at any time without warning. It is essential for individuals living in high-risk areas to be prepared for such events by having emergency kits and evacuation plans in place.

In conclusion, while there may be claims that certain individuals predicted the New Madrid earthquake, there is no definitive proof to support these claims. Regardless of whether or not it was predicted, it still serves as a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of being prepared for unexpected events.