Reply #19: I'm no expert either, but, you've asked some interesting questions. [View All]

[Hugin]

Yes, I would assume small quakes would indicate a reduction of stress. But, I also
assume the rule only holds true in a fault zone where the primary concern is earthquakes.

However, in the case of volcanic activity it would seem to me this seismic activity indicates
something is moving around under the area. Worst case would be magma, but, I've read most of
this type of activity under Yellowstone is caused by heated water.

Still?

I'm also interested in the series of small quakes moving diagonally across Utah from the
southwest corner up to the northeast. From what I understand there's a plate moving to
the north off the coast of Southern California and it appears to be shifting a little bit.