1.9 magnitude earthquake strikes Moodus, continuing centuries-old phenomenon

MOODUS, Conn. (WFSB) - A 1.9 magnitude earthquake hit Moodus Wednesday night, adding to the centuries-old phenomenon known as the “Moodus Noises” that have puzzled residents and scientists for generations.

The earthquake occurred more than five miles below the ground near the intersections of Creek Row and Old Orchard Road. While some residents felt or heard the event, others in the quiet East Haddam village missed it entirely.

Marc Mercadante, who lives in the area, described the experience. “It sounded like a bomb went off,” he said. “All of a sudden, I heard a loud bang. It felt like it was coming from underneath my house.”

However, Cynthia Matthew, who has lived near the epicenter for 23 years, didn’t notice anything unusual that night. Despite decades of living in Moodus, she has never experienced one of the famous noises.

The East Haddam Historical Society has the data and technology to confirm the earthquake occurred. A seismometer donated by Yale University sits in the cellar of the historical society, positioned exactly due north to capture precise data when these events happen.

“It’s been going on for hundreds of years, and the Indians knew about it long before you or I were around,” said John Bielot, who helps maintain the earthquake exhibits and technology at the historical society.

The Yale seismometer has proven invaluable for tracking the Moodus Noises, and there are plans for five more seismometers in the area. “Idea of where the earthquake hits because they’ll have more points of data to be able to look at,” Bielot said.

Moodus is known for its quiet atmosphere in the backwoods of East Haddam, far away from the hustle and bustle. But every so often, the true Moodus Noises make themselves known.

The Moodus Noises seem to come in waves, so until the next batch occurs, the village may stay its quiet self.