Do earthquakes happen in Alabama? The answer may surprise some, but it is yes.

Alabama is affected by three different zones of frequent earthquake activity including the New Madrid Sesimic Zone, the Southern Appalachian Seismic Zone and the South Carolina Seismic Zone.

In fact, just last month, a small 3.5 magnitude earthquake hit the Fort Morgan Peninsula at the mouth of the Mobile Bay.

Federal officials reported then that people more than 200 miles away reported feeling the trembler.

Additionally, a 2.2 magnitude hit near Gadsden.

In 2008, a 3.1-magnitude quake hit Coffeeville in southwest Alabama.

Neighboring residents in Escambia County were hit by a 3.1 magnitude quake in October 1997, which at the time was one of the largest recorded in Alabama.

In 2003, there were also two other quakes reported in the Atmore area, according to Geological Survey of Alabama Web site.