The New Madrid Seismic Zone (NMSZ) is a region located in the central United States that has been identified as one of the most seismically active areas in the country. The zone is named after the city of New Madrid, located in Missouri, which was the site of some of the largest earthquakes ever recorded in North America. The NMSZ is capable of producing earthquakes with magnitudes as high as 8.0 on the Richter scale, which could have devastating consequences for the region.
What States are Affected by the New Madrid Seismic Zone?
The NMSZ covers a large area that includes parts of seven states: Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Mississippi. However, not all of these states would be equally affected by a major earthquake in the region.
Illinois
The northernmost part of Illinois is located within the NMSZ and could experience moderate to strong shaking if a major earthquake were to occur. However, most of the state would likely experience only minor shaking.
Indiana
A small portion of southwestern Indiana falls within the NMSZ and could experience moderate to strong shaking in the event of a major earthquake. However, most of Indiana would likely experience only minor shaking.
Missouri
Missouri is perhaps the state that would be most heavily impacted by a major earthquake in the NMSZ. The state is bisected by the Mississippi River and has several large cities located within or near the zone, including St. Louis and Memphis. A major earthquake could cause significant damage to infrastructure and buildings throughout much of Missouri.
Arkansas
Northern Arkansas falls within the NMSZ and could experience moderate to strong shaking if a major earthquake were to occur. However, much of Arkansas would likely experience only minor shaking.
Tennessee
The western part of Tennessee falls within the NMSZ and could experience moderate to strong shaking in the event of a major earthquake. However, most of Tennessee would likely experience only minor shaking.
Kentucky
The westernmost part of Kentucky falls within the NMSZ and could experience moderate to strong shaking if a major earthquake were to occur. However, most of Kentucky would likely experience only minor shaking.
Mississippi
The northernmost part of Mississippi falls within the NMSZ and could experience moderate to strong shaking in the event of a major earthquake. However, most of Mississippi would likely experience only minor shaking.
Conclusion
While the NMSZ covers parts of seven states, not all of these states would be equally affected by a major earthquake in the region. Missouri is perhaps the state that would be most heavily impacted by such an event, while other states like Illinois and Indiana would likely experience only minor effects. It’s important for residents and officials in these states to be aware of the potential risks posed by this seismic zone and take steps to prepare for a possible earthquake.