Cooter, MO – A magnitude 4.0 earthquake struck near the Missouri-Tennessee border Thursday afternoon, sending light shaking across parts of the Mid-South, including the Memphis metro area.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the quake occurred at 12:59 p.m. Central Time on Thursday, April 23, about 1 kilometer northwest of Cooter, Missouri, in Pemiscot County. The earthquake originated at a depth of approximately 11.8 kilometers, a level shallow enough to be felt by nearby communities.
Residents across southeastern Missouri, western Tennessee, and northeastern Arkansas reported feeling the tremor, particularly in areas near Memphis, Shelby County, and surrounding suburbs. Early “Did You Feel It?” reports indicate light shaking consistent with a Level IV intensity, which can rattle windows and cause noticeable indoor movement but rarely results in damage.
The quake occurred within the New Madrid Seismic Zone, a historically active fault system known for producing some of the strongest earthquakes in U.S. history. While a magnitude 4.0 event is considered minor to light, it is relatively uncommon in the region and often draws attention due to the area’s seismic past.
USGS impact estimates show a low likelihood of damage or economic loss, with no immediate reports of injuries or structural issues. Aftershock probabilities remain low, though minor seismic activity cannot be ruled out in the coming days.
Officials have not issued any advisories, but residents are encouraged to report shaking and remain aware of emergency preparedness steps in case of future activity.
