The Wyoming Office of Homeland Security and State Geological Survey are encouraging residents to participate in the upcoming Great Wyoming ShakeOut. The annual earthquake drill is an opportunity to practice what to do in the event of an earthquake.

The ShakeOut is at 10:21 a.m. Thursday. The event is free and open to everyone, including schools, organizations, and businesses. Registration and additional information can be found at www.shakeout.org/wyoming/.

“Wyoming residents should be prepared for all hazards. The Great Wyoming ShakeOut is a wonderful opportunity to practice your response and ensure your family is ready if an earthquake occurs,” said Wyoming Office of Homeland Security Director Lynn Budd. “Earthquakes may occur where you live or travel ...”

She said participating in Thursday’s drill “will help you and your family to be prepared for an earthquake — wherever you are.”

Last year, 1,483 earthquakes occurred in Wyoming, 27 of them with magnitudes greater than 2.5. Earthquakes have been felt in every county in the state, though most happen in the western third. Most are in remote areas and do not cause harm, however, it is still important to be prepared, officials say.

“Earthquakes occur on a daily basis in Wyoming. While most are too small to be felt, the geologic record and modern seismic modelling tell us that damaging earthquakes are possible throughout much of the state,” said WSGS hazards geologist James Mauch. “As with any natural disaster, it’s important to prepare for an earthquake and practice your response ahead of time. 

“The Great Wyoming Shakeout is an opportunity to do just that, and we encourage folks to practice ‘Drop, Cover, and Hold On’ so that this immediate response becomes second nature,” Mauch said.

To learn more about earthquakes in Wyoming, visit www.wsgs.wyo.gov/hazards/earthquakes.aspx.