The New Madrid Seismic Zone, located in the central United States, is notorious for its history of powerful earthquakes. This region encompasses parts of Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee, and Kentucky and has experienced some of the largest quakes in U.S. history.
One frequently asked question is: “When was the last earthquake in New Madrid Missouri?” The answer is not straightforward as this region experiences thousands of small tremors each year. However, we can discuss significant seismic events that occurred in recent times.
In 2019, on September 27th at around 6:55 pm local time, a magnitude 2.5 earthquake hit New Madrid Missouri. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the quake’s epicenter was near Marston, Missouri, and had a depth of approximately 8 kilometers.
Although this might seem like a minor event compared to the massive quakes that occurred in this region during the early 1800s, it serves as a reminder that earthquakes can occur at any time and any place. It’s essential to stay informed about seismic activity in your area and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
Here are some useful tips to keep you safe during an earthquake:
Before
- Secure heavy furniture such as bookcases and cabinets to walls.
- Identify safe places inside your home or office where you can take cover.
- Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as water, food, and first aid supplies.
During
- If indoors, drop to the ground and take cover under a sturdy table or desk.
- If you’re outside when an earthquake occurs, move away from buildings and utility wires.
- If you’re driving when an earthquake happens, pull over to a clear location and stay in your car until the shaking stops.
After
- Check for injuries and provide aid if necessary.
- Check for gas leaks, damaged electrical wiring, and broken water pipes.
- Listen to local news to stay informed about the situation and any necessary evacuations or other instructions.
In conclusion, earthquakes can happen at any time in New Madrid Missouri or any other region with seismic activity. The last significant earthquake occurred in 1811-1812, but smaller tremors are common.
It’s crucial to stay informed about the latest seismic activity and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Remember the tips discussed above to keep yourself and your loved ones safe during an earthquake.