Craighead County, AR – Contributed – The Arkansas Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) is observing February as National Earthquake Awareness Month and reminding Arkansans that earthquakes are a real and significant hazard—particularly in northeast Arkansas, near the New Madrid Seismic Zone (NMSZ).
The NMSZ stretches roughly 120–125 miles from northeast Arkansas through southeast Missouri into parts of Tennessee, Kentucky, and Illinois. It remains one of the most active seismic zones in the United States, producing hundreds of small earthquakes every year. While most are too weak to be felt, the NMSZ is still active.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), a series of major earthquakes between 1811 and 1812 caused widespread ground deformation in the NMSZ. Scientists classify those events among the strongest earthquakes in U.S. history east of the Rocky Mountains.
Today, the USGS estimates a 7–10% probability of a repeat of those historic quakes and a 25–40% chance of a magnitude 6.0 or greater event occurring within the next 50 years.
A major New Madrid earthquake today could cause severe ground shaking, structural damage, utility disruptions, and transportation impacts across multiple states, with Arkansas among the hardest‑hit areas.
Although the New Madrid fault line lies beneath the northeast portion of the state, a large earthquake could still produce significant effects throughout central and eastern Arkansas, including damage to infrastructure and interruptions to essential services.
Because earthquakes strike without warning, ADEM encourages all Arkansans to take time this month to understand the risks and take simple steps to protect their families and communities.
How to Prepare: Before, During, and After an Earthquake
Before an earthquake:
- Secure heavy furniture and appliances: Strap tall bookcases, water heaters, and cabinets to wall studs.
- Identify safe spots: Choose “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” locations in every room—under sturdy desks or tables and away from windows or heavy objects.
- Build a disaster kit: Include water, nonperishable food, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, medications, copies of important documents, and enough supplies for at least 72 hours.
- Review your plans: Make a family communication plan and know how you will reunite if you’re separated.
During an earthquake:
- Drop to your hands and knees.
- Cover your head and neck, and if possible, get under a sturdy piece of furniture.
- Hold on until the shaking stops and it is safe to move.
- Stay indoors until the shaking ends.
After an earthquake:
- Check yourself and others for injuries and provide first aid as needed.
- Expect aftershocks, minutes, days, or even weeks after the main quake.
- Avoid damaged buildings, downed power lines, and visibly cracked or shifted ground.
State and Regional Preparedness Efforts:
ADEM works closely with local emergency managers, schools, businesses, and partner agencies to plan and practice for a New Madrid earthquake scenario.
This includes response training, communications coordination, and collaboration with neighboring states, the Central U.S. Earthquake Consortium (CUSEC), the Arkansas Department of Energy and Environment, Office of the State Geologist, and federal partners to ensure a rapid and organized response.
Learn More:
For more information on earthquakes and preparedness in Arkansas, visit:
