What Cities Are on the New Madrid Fault Line?

By Alice Nichols

The New Madrid Fault Line is a seismic zone that spans across several states in the United States. It is named after the town of New Madrid, Missouri, which was the site of a series of earthquakes in 1811 and 1812.

What Cities Are on the New Madrid Fault Line?

The New Madrid Fault Line runs from northeast Arkansas to southern Illinois. It also crosses parts of Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Mississippi. There are several cities located along this fault line, some of which are:

1. Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is one of the largest cities located on the New Madrid Fault Line.

It is home to over 651,000 people and is known for its rich musical history and barbecue. The city experienced a series of earthquakes in 1811 and 1812 that caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure.

2. St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis is another major city located on the fault line.

It has a population of over 300,000 people and is known for its iconic Gateway Arch and thriving sports scene. The city also experienced earthquakes in 1811 and 1812 that were felt as far away as Boston.

3. Little Rock, Arkansas

Little Rock is the capital city of Arkansas and has a population of over 197,000 people. While it may not be as large as Memphis or St. Louis, it still sits directly on the New Madrid Fault Line.

4. Paducah, Kentucky

Paducah is a small city with a population of just over 25,000 people located in western Kentucky along the Ohio River. While it may not be as well-known as other cities on this list, it still sits directly on the fault line.

Other Cities

In addition to these major cities, there are several other towns and cities located along the New Madrid Fault Line. These include:

  • Cape Girardeau, Missouri
  • Blytheville, Arkansas
  • Dyersburg, Tennessee
  • Nashville, Tennessee
  • Mississippi County, Arkansas

It is important to note that just because a city is located on the New Madrid Fault Line does not mean that it is guaranteed to experience earthquakes. However, the risk of seismic activity is higher in these areas than in other parts of the country.

In conclusion, several cities are located on the New Madrid Fault Line. While some of these cities are more well-known than others, they all share a common risk of seismic activity. By understanding which cities are located on this fault line, individuals can be better prepared for potential earthquakes and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.