The New Madrid Fault is a geological fault zone that spans across several states in the United States. It is named after the town of New Madrid, Missouri, where it was first discovered in the early 19th century. The fault zone has been responsible for some of the largest earthquakes in North America, including the massive quake that struck the region in 1811-1812.
If you live in or are planning to visit any of the states along the New Madrid Fault, it’s important to be aware of its potential for seismic activity. Here’s a list of the states that are included on this fault line:
States Along The New Madrid Fault
- Missouri: The town of New Madrid lies directly on top of the fault zone, and many other cities and towns in Missouri are also at risk for earthquake damage.
- Arkansas: Several major cities in Arkansas, including Little Rock and Jonesboro, are located on or near the New Madrid Fault.
- Tennessee: Memphis, one of Tennessee’s largest cities, is situated right on top of the fault zone.
- Kentucky: The western part of Kentucky is considered at risk for earthquake damage due to its proximity to the New Madrid Fault.
- Illinois: Although much of Illinois is not directly on top of the fault zone, several smaller towns and rural areas in southern Illinois are considered at risk.
- Mississippi: A small portion of northern Mississippi lies within the New Madrid seismic zone.
The Potential For Future Earthquakes
While it’s impossible to predict exactly when or where an earthquake will strike, scientists believe that the New Madrid Fault is still active and could potentially cause significant damage if a large earthquake were to occur. In fact, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has identified the region as one of the highest-risk areas for earthquakes in the United States.
If you live in or are planning to visit any of these states, it’s important to be prepared for seismic activity. Make sure you have an emergency plan in place, including a supply kit and a communication plan with your loved ones. Stay informed about any earthquake warnings or alerts from local authorities, and be ready to take action if necessary.
In conclusion, the New Madrid Fault is a significant geological feature that spans across several states in the United States. While earthquakes are rare in this region, they can and do occur, so it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to prepare yourself and your family for any seismic activity that may occur.