Earthquakes risk in Minnesota

Earthquake risk in Minnesota: what to know

Minnesota sits in the stable interior of the North American tectonic plate, far from the active plate boundaries that drive frequent earthquakes in places like California or Alaska. As a result, the state experiences very few earthquakes, and the USGS National Seismic Hazard Maps rate the risk as low across the entire state. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety's Homeland Security and Emergency Management division notes that while earthquakes are uncommon, they are not impossible.

The most notable seismic feature in Minnesota is the Midcontinent Rift, an ancient failed rift system that runs through the region. This rift can occasionally produce small earthquakes, typically below magnitude 4. Historical records show a few felt events, including a magnitude 4.6 earthquake near Morris in 1975, the largest known in the state. Other minor quakes have been recorded in various parts of Minnesota, but no area is considered significantly more exposed than others. The risk is spread fairly evenly, with perhaps slightly more events in the western and central parts where the rift is more prominent.

Earthquakes are not seasonal; they can happen at any time of year. The state's low risk means that most residents will never feel an earthquake, and damaging events are extremely rare. However, distant large earthquakes in the New Madrid Seismic Zone (about 400 miles south) could theoretically cause slight shaking in southern Minnesota, though the likelihood of damage is negligible. Overall, Minnesota's earthquake hazard is among the lowest in the country.

How it affects homes

Because Minnesota's earthquakes are typically small, property damage from a seismic event is usually minimal. If a quake is felt, it may cause minor cracks in plaster or drywall, objects to fall from shelves, or small foundation cracks. In rare cases, older masonry chimneys or unreinforced brick foundations could be vulnerable, but widespread structural damage is highly unlikely. Most homes in Minnesota are built to withstand the state's other natural hazards, such as winter storms and tornadoes, which incidentally provides some resilience to shaking.

From an insurance perspective, standard homeowners policies generally do not cover earthquake damage. You would need a separate earthquake insurance policy or endorsement. Given the low risk in Minnesota, many insurers offer such coverage, but it often comes with a high deductible. Homeowners should review their policy and decide whether the additional premium is worthwhile for their situation. The FEMA earthquake safety page provides guidance on insurance considerations and mitigation.

How to prepare your home

Even in a low-risk state, basic earthquake preparedness is a good idea. The following steps can help protect your home and family:

• Secure heavy furniture and appliances: Anchor bookcases, shelving units, and tall furniture to wall studs. Use straps or brackets to secure water heaters, refrigerators, and other large appliances.
• Secure fragile items: Place breakables on lower shelves or use museum putty to hold them in place. Install latches on cabinet doors to keep items from falling out.
• Know how to shut off utilities: Learn how to turn off gas, water, and electricity in case of damage. Keep a wrench near the gas meter and show family members how to use it.
• Create an emergency kit: Include water, non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies, and a battery-powered radio. Ready.gov has a full list.
• Practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On: During an earthquake, drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck, and hold on to sturdy furniture. Practice this drill with your household at least twice a year.
• Inspect your home: Check for structural weaknesses, such as unbraced cripple walls or unreinforced masonry. Consult a professional if you have concerns, though major retrofits are rarely needed in Minnesota.
• Develop a family emergency plan: Identify safe spots in each room and choose a meeting place after the shaking stops. Make sure everyone knows how to communicate if separated.

Frequently asked questions

Are earthquakes common in Minnesota?

No. Minnesota experiences very few earthquakes. Most are too small to be felt, and the state has no active fault lines comparable to those in California. The USGS records only a handful of minor events each decade, and many go unnoticed.

Can a major earthquake happen in Minnesota?

A major, damaging earthquake is extremely unlikely. The largest recorded earthquake in Minnesota was a magnitude 4.6 in 1975, which caused only minor damage. The state's geological setting makes a catastrophic event improbable, but small earthquakes cannot be ruled out.

Do I need earthquake insurance in Minnesota?

Most homeowners do not purchase earthquake insurance because the risk is low. However, if you live in an older home with unreinforced masonry or simply want peace of mind, you can ask your insurer about a separate policy. Weigh the cost against the very low likelihood of damage, and remember that standard policies exclude earthquake damage.

Official resources

• Minnesota Homeland Security and Emergency Management
• USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
• Ready.gov – Earthquakes
• FEMA Earthquake Safety