Many residents of Southeast Missouri were rattled on Wednesday evening when a 4.0 magnitude earthquake struck the area.

The quake occurred at 8:53 p.m. and was centered five miles south-southeast of Williamsville according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

According to USGS data this was the largest earthquake in the region since a 3.9 magnitude quake hit the Bertrand area in February of 2012.  

Andrew Bohnert, Stoddard County EMA Director stated, "We have not heard of any damage to homes or building in the Stoddard County area, but some residents reported pictures falling off walls."  He went on to say that more damage was reported in the Butler County area including some drywall cracks and maybe some windows broken.

The USGS initially reported the earthquake as a magnitude 3.7 but later upgraded it to a 4.0.

Many residents across Stoddard County and surrounding area reported hearing a loud boom just before the earthquake hit.  The ground shook for several seconds.  One person reported her bird felt it before she did and alerted her to something coming.

City Administrator, Trevor Pulley, contacted the ShowMe Times within minutes to let people know he and Dexter's EMA Director, Don Seymore, were out checking buildings downtown.  They found some wind damage as the winds picked up right around the time of the earthquake.  They both have reported no major damage.

If you felt the earthquake the USGS would like to hear from you.  Here is a quick survey that will help them with data!  Click HERE.