Tri-State Region Faces Earthquake Risk from New Madrid Seismic Zone

Experts warn of potential for catastrophic quakes in Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The New Madrid Seismic Zone, which runs through parts of Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Missouri, has produced some of the strongest earthquakes in U.S. history and is still considered an active fault line. While the region does not experience frequent major quakes, experts caution that a large earthquake in this area could cause significant damage and disruption across the tri-state area.

Why it matters

The tri-state region is not typically associated with major seismic activity, leading many residents to underestimate the earthquake risk. However, the New Madrid Seismic Zone has a history of producing powerful quakes that can cause widespread destruction, and experts warn that the area remains vulnerable to future catastrophic events.

The details

The New Madrid Seismic Zone produced a series of major earthquakes between 1811 and 1812 that destroyed settlements, caused dramatic landscape changes, and were felt as far away as the East Coast. One of these quakes is believed to have reached 8.0 magnitude, which can completely devastate communities near the epicenter. While the region has not experienced a similarly powerful earthquake in recent history, experts say the fault line remains active and capable of generating catastrophic shaking.

  • In the winter of 1811-1812, a series of major earthquakes along the New Madrid Seismic Zone occurred.
  • On August 9, 2025, a magnitude 2.6 earthquake was reported near Cynthiana, Indiana, with residents in Evansville and New Harmony reporting light shaking.

The players

United States Geological Survey (USGS)

The federal agency responsible for monitoring and studying seismic activity in the United States.

John Bellini

A geophysicist with the USGS who provided expert insights on the earthquake risk in the tri-state region.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Earthquakes happen all the time in the New Madrid area which covers parts of seven American states: Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Arkansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, Oklahoma, and Mississippi. We just do not feel most of them.”

— John Bellini, Geophysicist, United States Geological Survey

What’s next

The United States Geological Survey offers detailed guidance on how to prepare for and respond to earthquakes in the tri-state region.

The takeaway

While the tri-state area has not experienced a major earthquake in recent history, the region remains at risk due to its proximity to the active New Madrid Seismic Zone. Experts recommend that residents take steps to prepare for the possibility of a catastrophic quake, as the consequences could be severe if one were to occur.