The state of Oklahoma, which on average records two earthquakes per year of 3.0 magnitude or greater, has already recorded 207 quakes of at least this size as of June 2014, according to the U.S. Geological Society (USGS). This is well ahead of the 140 quakes of this size or greater recorded in the state of California during this same period.

The trend of more earthquakes began in the state in 2009. Nearly every year since, they have increased. “Earthquakes are going to be a normal part of everyday life in Oklahoma,” meteorologist Chad Myers said. “They are going to become more and more a part of life there” (CNN).

Scientists are worried what the trend may mean for the future. USGS geophysicist Rob Williams told CNN, “Given the rate of earthquakes over the last six months, it’s concerning enough to be worried about a larger, damaging earthquake happening.”