Will the supermoon on Nov. 14 trigger a superquake?

Nov. 14 the Moon will be closer than it has in 70 years.

On the night of Nov. 14, you will have the chance to see an amazing sight. On that day, the Moon will pass closer to Earth than it has in nearly 70 years.

LOS ANGELES, CA (California Network) - The closest supermoon of the past 70 years is this November 14. On that night, the Moon will sail gracefully just 238,900 miles above the Earth. The last time the Moon was this close was in January 1948.

The supermoon may not look much different than usual to most observers on the ground. In fact, you're unlikely to notice anything different about the Moon. The difference in size is virtually imperceptible to the naked eye.

However, there is another way you will notice the supermoon, and that is in the tides. The Moon causes the tides, and it has more influence than usual when it is closer to Earth. As a result, exceptionally low and high tides are expected around Nov. 14.

There is some research to suggest that tidal forces have an influence on earthquakes, but it remains controversial. If true, then the supermoon could put additional stress on fragile faults, causing one or more around the world to rupture. However, the likelihood of this happening is uncertain.

The supermoon will rise on Nov. 14 at sunset. To see the sight, just go outside and look for the Moon. At midnight it will be directly overhead.

In addition to the full moon, you may see a shooting star or two because the Leonid meteor shower will peak in the days following the supermoon. The two events are unrelated.

However, the supermoon is bad news for fans of the Leonids because its bright glare will wash out many of the fainter meteors.

Still, the sight will be worth a look. Enjoy the show!

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