The New Madrid Fault is a geological formation located in the central United States. It is named after the town of New Madrid, Missouri, where it was first identified in the early 1800s. This fault runs for about 150 miles through five states: Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, and Tennessee.
What is the New Madrid Fault?
The New Madrid Fault is a complex network of faults that formed as a result of continental rifting. It is one of the most active seismic zones in the United States outside of California. The fault zone has produced several large earthquakes throughout history, including some of the largest ever recorded in North America.
History of Earthquakes
The most significant earthquake associated with the New Madrid Fault occurred in 1811 and had an estimated magnitude of 7.5 to 7.8 on the Richter scale. This event caused widespread damage throughout the region and was felt as far away as Boston and Charleston. Several aftershocks followed over the next few months.
Another series of earthquakes occurred in 1812, with the largest having an estimated magnitude of 7.4 to 8.0 on the Richter scale. These earthquakes also caused significant damage and were felt over a wide area.
Since then, there have been several smaller earthquakes associated with the New Madrid Fault, but none as severe as those that occurred in 1811 and 1812.
Current Threat Level
Despite its location outside of California’s seismic zone, experts consider the New Madrid Fault to be a significant threat due to its potential for producing large earthquakes that could cause significant damage across a wide area.
According to FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency), there is a high probability (greater than or equal to 7 percent) of an earthquake with a magnitude greater than or equal to 7.0 occurring within the next 50 years in the New Madrid seismic zone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the New Madrid Fault is a seismic zone located in the central United States that has the potential to produce large earthquakes. Although it has been relatively quiet since the earthquakes of 1811 and 1812, experts consider it to be a significant threat that requires ongoing monitoring and preparedness efforts.