Memphis is in the damage range of the New Madrid Fault Zone, the most active fault east of the Rocky Mountains. The most devastating earthquake on the fault occurred nearly 200 years ago, leaving seismologists to speculate that the next “big” might be just around the corner.
Location
The New Madrid Seismic Zone lies within the central Mississippi Valley, is 150 miles long, and touches five states. Its northernmost point is in southern Illinois and extends south into eastern Arkansas and western Tennessee.
Any earthquake that occurs in this Seismic Zone could affect parts of eight states, including Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and of course Tennessee.
Story
From 1811 to 1812, the New Madrid fault zone saw some of the largest earthquakes in North American history. During a four-month period, five earthquakes with estimates of magnitude of 8.0 or greater were recorded in the area. These earthquakes were responsible for causing the Mississippi River to briefly flow backward, leading to the formation of Reelfoot Lake.
Activity
Madrid’s New Fault Zone has at least one earthquake a day, although most of these earthquakes are too weak for us to feel them. Longtime Memphis residents may recall 5.0 that occurred in March 1976 or 4.8 in September 1990. Scientists say the probability of an earthquake of magnitude 6.0 or greater on the New Madrid fault in the next 50 years it is between 25 and 40 percent.
In 2012, the United States Geological Survey reported a 4.0 magnitude earthquake in the New Madrid seismic zone with an epicenter in Parkin, Arkansas, which could reportedly be felt by some Memphis residents.
The University of Memphis is home to the Center for Earthquake Information and Research (CERTI), an organization established in 1977 to monitor seismic activity in the Mid-South using cutting-edge technology. They provide updates and information on the possibility of earthquakes and best practices, as well as educate graduate students in the field.
Earthquake Preparedness
There are several ways to stay prepared for the possibility of an earthquake in Memphis. First, you can keep an earthquake survival kit in your home and in your car. It is a good idea to learn how to turn off gas, water, and electricity in your home. If you have heavy objects hanging on the walls of your home, make sure they are securely attached. Then make a plan with the family to get together after an earthquake (or any catastrophe). Finally, you can add earthquake coverage to your homeowner’s insurance policy.
In case of earthquake
During an earthquake, take cover under heavy furniture or brace yourself at a door. You should stay away from buildings, trees, power lines, and overpasses. Be sure to listen to the radio or television for instructions from emergency officials. When the earthquake has stopped, check for injuries to yourself and others. After that, check for safety issues: unstable buildings, gas leaks, downed power lines, etc.
