The New Madrid Seismic Zone is a region located in the central United States, spanning from Illinois to Arkansas. The area is known for its seismic activity, which has historically produced some of the largest earthquakes in the continental United States.
But just how dangerous is the New Madrid Seismic Zone? Let’s take a closer look.
The History of Earthquakes in the New Madrid Seismic Zone
The New Madrid Seismic Zone was named after the town of New Madrid, Missouri, which was at the center of a series of earthquakes that occurred in 1811 and 1812. These earthquakes, estimated to have been between magnitude 7.5 and 8 on the Richter scale, were felt as far away as Canada and caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure in the region.
Since then, there have been several other notable earthquakes in the region, including a magnitude 5.4 earthquake in 1968 that caused damage to buildings and bridges in southern Illinois.
Assessing the Risk
Despite its history of seismic activity, experts are divided on just how dangerous the New Madrid Seismic Zone really is. Some geologists believe that another major earthquake could occur at any time, while others argue that the risk has been overstated.
One factor that makes it difficult to assess the risk is that earthquakes in this region are relatively infrequent compared to other parts of the world where seismic activity is more common. This means there is less data available to help predict when an earthquake might occur.
Preparing for an Earthquake
Regardless of whether or not you live within or near the New Madrid Seismic Zone, it’s always important to be prepared for an earthquake. Here are some steps you can take:
- Make sure your home or office building is up-to-date with seismic building codes.
- Create an emergency kit with food, water, and medical supplies.
- Identify safe places to shelter during an earthquake, such as under a sturdy piece of furniture or in a doorway.
- Have a plan in place for communicating with loved ones and emergency responders in the event of an earthquake.
Conclusion
While the risk of a major earthquake in the New Madrid Seismic Zone remains uncertain, it’s always important to be prepared for any natural disaster. By taking steps to prepare yourself and your property, you can minimize the impact of an earthquake and ensure that you and your loved ones stay safe.