Although it only rattled some buildings and some nerves locally, the earthquake that hit much of the East Coast Tuesday could have been far worse and serves as a clear reminder that this region is not exempt from natural disasters.

The quake, which experts say measured about 5.8 on the Richter scale, was centered in rural Virginia but the effects were felt across a much larger area.

We’re thankful that there were not severe injuries and that most of the damage across the East Coast was relegated to property.

Our region is not typically looked at as being susceptible to earthquakes, but this is an example of what could have been.

The tremors were enough to send some residents and citizens scrambling out of their homes and workplaces trying to figure out what was going on.

Virtually no one thinks about having earthquake preparedness kits together but the needs are similar to what would be required in other emergencies.

We urge all Lawrence Countians to think about emergency preparedness kits that would include bottled water, flashlights and batteries, canned food, first-aid kids, candles and more.

A little planning now may make all the difference later in case the next quake is more than just a little shaking.