[Merdoug]

Here in Tennesee, we rarely get earthquakes; mainly tornadoes to keep us on our toes.
Earthquake question: Will a big quake usually be the FIRST to hit, and then smaller aftershocks, or can you get little ones leading up to a big one too?
Thanks!
Doug

[Joe Hadenuf]

Will a big quake usually be the FIRST to hit, and then smaller aftershocks, or can you get little ones leading up to a big one too?

I'm no seismic expert, but generally the larger in a series will be first, then smaller. My experience is a large event followed by smaller after shocks...

Others here are much more knowledgeable than I when it comes to seismic events....Maybe someone else can answer that better....

[Canticle_of_Deborah]

Will a big quake usually be the FIRST to hit, and then smaller aftershocks, or can you get little ones leading up to a big one too?

Yes, both scenarios could happen.