On the overlay, there is a concentration of higher magnitude earthquakes (blue dots) near New Madrid, MO (location of the early 19th century large earthquakes).

Which statement is the best hypothesis to explain this observation?

A. there may be a bend in the underlying fault systems

B. there may be an intersection of several faults at this location

C. older earthquakes may have slipped elsewhere, placing more stress at this location

D. all of these hypotheses are viable and worth testing