The New Madrid Fault and the San Andreas Fault are two of the most well-known faults in the United States. While both are known for producing some of the largest earthquakes in history, there has been ongoing debate about which fault is bigger and more dangerous. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two seismic zones and determine which one is truly the biggest.
What are the New Madrid Fault and San Andreas Fault?
The New Madrid Fault is located in the central United States, stretching from Illinois to Arkansas. It was responsible for producing a series of earthquakes in 1811-1812 that were so powerful that they changed the course of the Mississippi River. The San Andreas Fault, on the other hand, runs through California and is responsible for producing some of the largest and most destructive earthquakes in history.
Size Comparison
While both faults are capable of producing devastating earthquakes, when it comes to their size, there is a clear winner. The New Madrid Fault is actually much larger than the San Andreas Fault. The New Madrid Seismic Zone covers an area of approximately 150 miles (240 km) long and 50 miles (80 km) wide, while the San Andreas Fault is only about 800 miles (1,300 km) long.
Intensity Comparison
However, when it comes to earthquake intensity, things get a bit more complicated. The San Andreas Fault has a higher frequency of smaller quakes whereas quakes on New Madrid are fewer but with higher magnitudes. This means that while there may be more earthquakes on the San Andreas Fault overall, they are typically less powerful than those on the New Madrid Fault.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both faults have their unique characteristics and risks associated with them, it’s clear that when it comes to size alone, The New Madrid fault is larger than San Andreas. However, the intensity and frequency of earthquakes on San Andreas make it a more active fault in terms of seismic activity. It’s important to remember that no matter where you live, earthquakes can happen at any time and being prepared is essential to staying safe.
- Keep an emergency kit with food, water and first aid supplies
- Secure heavy objects in your home that could fall during an earthquake
- Have a plan in place for how you and your family will communicate and reunite if separated during an earthquake
Stay safe and informed!
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