In the central United States, earthquakes do occur on a regular basis.  The Center for Earthquake Research and Information in Memphis, Tennessee houses current seismic maps and information that give a comprehensive view into recent seismic activity in this region.  Additionally, the U.S. Geological Survey hosts sites that display United States and Worldwide seismic activity. 

In 1811, the central Mississippi Valley was sparsely populated. Today, the region is home to millions of people, including those in the cities of St. Louis, Missouri, and Memphis, Tennessee.  Adding to the danger, most structures in the region were not built to withstand earthquake shaking, as they have been in more seismically active areas like California.  Moreover, most earthquake preparations also have lagged far behind.

Recognizing these problems,  CUSEC, our Member States, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and other organizations are joining together to take actions that will greatly reduce loss of life and property in future temblors.

Recent studies have indicated that the New Madrid Seismic Zone is not the only 'hot spot' for earthquakes in the Central United States.  On April 18, 2008, a 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck near Mt. Carmel, Illinois, further demonstrating that earthquakes are topic that needs to be addressed.  This earthquake was felt in at least 16 states, by more than 40,000 people, accoriding to the USGS.  Fortunately, there were no serious injuries or fatalities, but non-structural damage was reported in the states of Illinois, Indiana, & Kentucky.

The Wabash Valley Seismic Zone is located in Southeastern Illinois and Southwestern Indiana and it is capable of producing 'New Madrid' size earthquake events. Since the discovery of this seismic zone, earthquake awareness and preparedness have increased.  Residents are seeing that moderate sized earthquakes are not just occuring to the south, but occur right at home and can affect Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky.

We have tried to put together some frequently asked questions about the seismic hazard in the central United States.   The FAQ's cover a  range of both technical and non-technical areas.   If you have questions not answered below, please submit them to us.  We will answer them directly to you and will make them available to others via this FAQ.

We have tried to gather several different types of earthquake related links that you may find useful.   Resources include links to Federal Government websites, Earthquake Research & Academia partners, other NEHRP Consortia, International Earthquake links, Non-Profit & Professional Association links, and links to our Corporate Sponsors.  If your organization is not listed, please please contact us and we will review your request to be added to our list.

CUSEC has put together a list of websites, found below, that offer earthquake information and projects geared towards kids.  These sites will give kids a better understanding of the hazard and the types of research that is involved in the scientific community.  Additionally, some of the sites show kids just what to do and expect in the event of an earthquake.  Feel free to browse through these links and let us know what you think.