Earthquakes in Illinois? Be prepared.

Did you know that the most powerful earthquakes ever to occur in the continental United States took place in the New Madrid Seismic Zone (NMSZ) during the winter of 1811-1812?   At that time, the area of the seismic zone was scarcely populated. Experts estimate that a similar series of earthquakes today would devastate the region, with projected damages of $60 to $80 billion.

The largest earthquake in recent years occurred on the Wabash Valley Seismic Zone. This earthquake registered a magnitude of 5.4 and occurred in Mt. Carmel, Illinois on April 18th, 2008.

The Wabash Valley Zone is located between southeastern Illinois and southwestern Indiana. The NMSZ is located in the Central Mississippi Valley and includes portions of the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Mississippi, and Tennessee. 

Be sure to take a look at IEMA's website about earthquake awareness it provides practical information on what Illinois residents can do before, during, and after an earthquake. 



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