The New Madrid Fault Line in Tennessee is a topic that has been on the minds of many people in the state and beyond. The fault line is one of the most active seismic zones in the United States and has been responsible for some of the largest earthquakes in North American history. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at where the New Madrid Fault Line is located within Tennessee.
What Is the New Madrid Fault Line?
The New Madrid Fault Line is a series of faults that run along the Mississippi River Valley, spanning from Cairo, Illinois to Marked Tree, Arkansas. The fault line was named after the town of New Madrid, Missouri, which was one of the areas hit hardest by earthquakes during a series of tremors that occurred between 1811 and 1812. These earthquakes were some of the strongest ever recorded in North America and caused extensive damage to towns and cities throughout the region.
Where Is the New Madrid Fault Line in Tennessee?
While the fault line runs through several states, including Missouri, Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, and Tennessee, it’s important to note that it doesn’t follow a straight path. Instead, it curves and meanders as it crosses state lines.
In Tennessee specifically, the New Madrid Fault Line runs through several counties in the western part of the state. These counties include Lake County, Obion County, Weakley County, Henry County, Benton County, Decatur County, Henderson County, and Madison County.
Notable Earthquakes on the New Madrid Fault Line
As mentioned earlier in this article, some of North America’s largest earthquakes have occurred along this fault line. The most notable of these occurred between December 1811 and February 1812 when four large earthquakes ranging from magnitude 7.5 to 8.0 hit near New Madrid.
These quakes caused the Mississippi River to flow backward for a short period and created new lakes and waterfalls. The tremors were felt as far away as New York City and caused damage in several states, including Tennessee.
How to Prepare for an Earthquake
Living near an active fault line like the New Madrid Fault Line can be unnerving, but there are steps you can take to prepare yourself and your family in case of an earthquake. These include:
- Creating a disaster supply kit with essentials like food, water, first aid supplies, and important documents
- Securing heavy furniture, appliances, and other items that could topple over during a quake
- Making sure your home is up to code with proper reinforcement in place
- Having a plan in place for communication and evacuation if necessary
Conclusion
The New Madrid Fault Line is a significant geological feature that has played a role in shaping the landscape of Tennessee and surrounding states. While it’s impossible to predict when the next earthquake will occur, being informed and prepared can help ensure your safety in case of a seismic event.