Household earthquake preparedness in Oklahoma: A mixed methods study of selected municipalities

This paper examines household earthquake preparedness in Oklahoma through a mixed methods study of selected municipalities. Induced seismicity has increased in prevalence in the central United States following an increase in hydraulic fracturing and the resultant disposal of wastewater back into the Earth's crust. At least 22 out of 77 counties in Oklahoma are affected. Ranging from low to moderate magnitudes, induced earthquakes (IE) can result in property damage, property value decrease, and detrimental personal wellness.

Through the quantitative component of the study, the paper finds the study population unprepared for earthquakes. The researchers found no statistically significant differences in earthquake preparedness between community members who experienced IE damages and those who did not. In the qualitative component, five themes explaining the lack of preparedness emerged: lack of earthquake experience; lack of IE preparedness knowledge; difficulty preparing for multiple hazards; resentment toward preparing for an induced hazard; and IE damages should not be the responsibility of impacted residents.