How Far Was the New Madrid Earthquake Felt?

By Michael Ferguson

On December 16, 1811, the largest earthquake ever recorded in the central United States occurred near New Madrid, Missouri. The earthquake was so strong that it was felt as far away as Washington D.C., Boston, and even Canada. It caused extensive damage to buildings and homes in the region and altered the landscape of the Mississippi River.

What Caused the New Madrid Earthquake?

The New Madrid earthquake was caused by a series of large faults deep beneath the earth’s surface. These faults created a seismic zone that extends from Marked Tree, Arkansas to Cairo, Illinois. This area is known as the New Madrid Seismic Zone (NMSZ) and is still active today.

How Strong Was the New Madrid Earthquake?

The New Madrid earthquake had a magnitude of 7.5 to 7.9 on the Richter Scale. To put this into perspective, an earthquake with a magnitude of 7 or higher is considered a major earthquake and can cause widespread damage.

Where Was the New Madrid Earthquake Felt?

The New Madrid earthquake was felt across a wide area of North America. It was felt as far away as Washington D. However, it was most strongly felt in Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Illinois, and Indiana.

In Missouri:

  • The city of St. Louis experienced severe shaking that damaged buildings and homes.
  • The towns of New Madrid and Caruthersville were completely destroyed.

In Kentucky:

  • The city of Louisville experienced moderate shaking.
  • The town of Lexington experienced light shaking.

In Tennessee:

  • The city of Memphis experienced moderate shaking.
  • The town of Nashville experienced light shaking.

In Arkansas:

  • The towns of Little Rock and Jonesboro experienced light shaking.

In Mississippi:

  • The town of Natchez experienced light shaking.

In Illinois:

  • The town of Kaskaskia was completely destroyed.
  • The city of Chicago experienced light shaking.

Conclusion

The New Madrid earthquake was one of the most powerful earthquakes ever recorded in the central United States. It was felt across a wide area and caused extensive damage to buildings and homes. Today, the New Madrid Seismic Zone is still active, and scientists continue to study it in order to better understand earthquakes and how to mitigate their effects.