Is Oklahoma in the New Madrid Fault?

By Michael Ferguson

If you’re living in Oklahoma, you might be wondering if the state lies within the New Madrid Fault zone. The New Madrid Seismic Zone is one of the major earthquake zones in the United States.

It spans across several states in the Midwest and South, including Arkansas, Missouri, Tennessee, Kentucky, Illinois, and Mississippi. But does Oklahoma fall within this zone? Let’s take a closer look at the geography of this area.

What is the New Madrid Fault?

The New Madrid Seismic Zone is named after the town of New Madrid, Missouri. It’s a region that’s known for its frequent earthquakes and seismic activity. The fault line runs along the Mississippi River and stretches over 150 miles from Cairo, Illinois to Marked Tree, Arkansas.

Is Oklahoma in the New Madrid Fault?

No, Oklahoma is not located within the New Madrid Seismic Zone. However, that doesn’t mean that it’s immune to earthquakes. In fact, Oklahoma has experienced a significant increase in seismic activity over the past few years due to human-induced causes such as oil drilling and wastewater disposal.

Why is Oklahoma prone to earthquakes?

Oklahoma has seen an uptick in earthquake activity due to fracking – a method used to extract oil and gas from underground rock formations by injecting high-pressure water into them. This process can increase pressure on existing faults or create new ones altogether.

What precautions should Oklahomans take?

Although Oklahoma isn’t located within the New Madrid Seismic Zone, it’s still important for residents to be prepared for earthquakes. The state government recommends having an emergency kit ready that includes food, water, first aid supplies, and other essentials that can last for several days.

In conclusion

While Oklahoma isn’t located within the New Madrid Seismic Zone, it still experiences earthquakes due to human-induced causes. It’s crucial for residents to be prepared and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety in the event of an earthquake. By staying informed and having a plan in place, Oklahomans can minimize the impact of seismic activity on their lives.