Earthquakes
Ozarks Earthquake Today: Magnitude 2.5 Recorded in Southern Missouri Oct 14
Thomasville, MO – A magnitude 2.5 earthquake struck the Missouri Ozarks Wednesday, Oct. 14, adding an unexpected real world reminder of seismic activity during earthquake awareness week.
By Natalie Rhodes · 2026-10-14T20:34:12.933Z
Thomasville, MO – A magnitude 2.5 earthquake struck the Missouri Ozarks Wednesday, Oct. 14, adding an unexpected real world reminder of seismic activity during earthquake awareness week.
According to earthquake data reviewed by the New Madrid Seismic Network, the earthquake occurred at approximately 8:31 a.m. Central time, about 2.5 miles south southwest of Thomasville in southern Missouri.
Earthquake Recorded Beneath the Ozarks
The earthquake originated approximately 1.5 kilometers, or 0.9 miles, beneath the surface, making it a relatively shallow seismic event.
The epicenter was located in Oregon County, within the Ozarks region of southern Missouri, east of West Plains and north of the Arkansas state line.
The reviewed earthquake record identifies the event as magnitude 2.5.
At the time of the displayed report, eight responses had been submitted through the earthquake reporting system. The information provided did not establish any injuries or structural damage.
Timing Coincides With Earthquake Awareness Week
The earthquake comes as earthquake preparedness receives attention during the week of Oct. 14, providing a timely reminder that seismic activity is possible across southern Missouri.
Although smaller earthquakes generally produce limited impacts, they can sometimes be felt by people near their epicenters, depending on depth, local geology and building conditions.
Missouri is also home to the New Madrid Seismic Zone, one of the nation's most historically significant earthquake regions.
However, the occurrence of this earthquake does not establish that it was caused by activity within the New Madrid Seismic Zone.
What Residents Should Know
Emergency preparedness officials recommend remembering the earthquake safety procedure: Drop, Cover and Hold On.
Residents who experience shaking should move away from windows, take cover beneath sturdy furniture when possible and remain indoors until shaking stops.
Anyone who felt Wednesday's earthquake can submit an experience report through the U.S. Geological Survey's Did You Feel It? system.
Residents can also monitor the USGS earthquake catalog for updated event information.