(KMOV) -- The U.S. Geological Survey reports that southeastern Missouri experienced a 4.0 magnitude earthquake Tuesday morning that was also felt in eight other states.
The earthquake happened around 4:00 a.m. with the epicenter near the town of East Prairie, Missouri, not far from Sikeston.
Geological Survey geophysicist Amy Vaughan says several people in Missouri, Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky and Tennessee reported being awakened by the quake. A few residents of North Carolina, Alabama, Indiana and Georgia also reported feeling it.
Meteorologist Matt Chambers explains that a 4.0 magnitude earthquake is one that can be felt a significant distance from the epicenter although It is typically not one to cause severe damage. On the other hand Vaughn said she has heard reports of cracks in sidewalks and walls, some broken windows and minor household damage such as rattled shelves and things falling from cabinets.
East Prairie City Administrator Lonnie Thurmond says the shaking lasted about seven seconds.
