The New Madrid Fault is one of the most well-known earthquake zones in the world. This fault line runs through the central United States and has been responsible for some of the largest earthquakes in North American history.
But when was the New Madrid Fault last active? Let’s take a closer look.
The History of the New Madrid Fault
The New Madrid Fault is named after the town of New Madrid, Missouri, which is located near its center. The fault line itself runs roughly north to south through Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee, and Kentucky. It was first discovered by European settlers in the late 1700s, but it wasn’t until 1811 and 1812 that it became truly infamous.
During those years, a series of massive earthquakes struck the region, with magnitudes estimated at between 7.5 and 8.0 on the Richter scale. These were some of the most powerful earthquakes ever recorded in North America and were felt as far away as Boston and Washington D.C.
Since then, there have been other significant earthquakes along the New Madrid Fault, including a magnitude 6.6 quake in 1895 and a magnitude 5.4 quake in 1968.
When Was the New Madrid Fault Last Active?
The last major earthquake along the New Madrid Fault occurred on February 7th, 1812. There were actually three separate quakes that day, with magnitudes estimated at between 7.4 and 8.1 on the Richter scale.
While there have been smaller earthquakes along this fault line since then, none have approached that level of severity.
What Does This Mean for People Living Near the Fault?
While it’s impossible to predict when or if another major earthquake will occur along the New Madrid Fault, there is no doubt that people living in this region need to be prepared for the possibility.
This means having an emergency plan in place, stocking up on supplies like food and water, and making sure that your home is structurally sound. It also means being aware of the signs of an impending earthquake, such as unusual animal behavior or small tremors.
The Importance of Preparedness
While the New Madrid Fault may not have been active in recent years, that doesn’t mean that it can’t cause significant damage in the future. By being prepared and taking steps to mitigate the risks associated with living near a fault line, people in this region can help protect themselves and their families from potential disaster.
So while we may not know when the New Madrid Fault will be active again, we can take steps now to ensure that we are ready for whatever may come our way.