Earthquakes Risk in Missouri — Level 3 of 5

Missouri faces a moderate earthquake risk, primarily from the New Madrid Seismic Zone in the southeastern part of the state. While large earthquakes are rare, they can cause significant ground shaking and damage to homes. Understanding your risk and preparing your property can reduce potential harm.

Earthquake Risk in Missouri

Missouri is not commonly associated with earthquakes like California, but it has a significant and historically active seismic hazard. The state’s primary earthquake risk lies in the New Madrid Seismic Zone, which stretches from southeastern Missouri through Arkansas, Tennessee, and Kentucky. This zone is named after the town of New Madrid, Missouri, and is the most active seismic area east of the Rocky Mountains.

Missouri’s earthquake risk is rated level 3 of 5 by national hazard assessments, meaning it faces a moderate hazard. While the Pacific Coast experiences more frequent quakes, the Midwest can experience major earthquakes. In 1811–1812, a series of very large earthquakes occurred near New Madrid, reportedly causing the Mississippi River to temporarily flow backward and shaking felt across the central United States. Since then, the zone has continued to produce small to moderate quakes, and seismologists consider it capable of producing large events again.

Unlike hurricanes or tornadoes, earthquakes have no season and provide no warning. They can occur at any time of day or year. The most exposed areas in Missouri are the counties near the Mississippi River in the southeastern part of the state, including New Madrid, Stoddard, Scott, and Pemiscot counties. However, ground shaking can be felt across the entire state, and homes in the St. Louis and Kansas City areas could also experience damage from a major event.

How it affects homes

Earthquakes damage homes primarily through ground shaking and ground failure. In Missouri, the Mississippi River region contains loose, water-saturated soils that are prone to liquefaction—a process where solid ground turns into a liquid-like substance during shaking. This can cause foundations to sink, crack, or tilt.

Typical property damage from earthquakes includes:

Cracks in drywall and stucco
Broken windows and glass
Toppled chimneys and brick veneer
Fall of unsecured furniture and appliances
Water heater ruptures and gas leaks from unmounted lines
Foundation cracks or movement, especially in homes with raised foundations

Even a moderate earthquake can create enough shaking to topple a hot water heater, causing a fire or water damage. In more severe quakes, older brick homes and buildings with weak crawlspace foundations may suffer structural failure.

Regarding insurance, it is important to know that standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover earthquake damage. Homeowners in Missouri must purchase a separate earthquake insurance policy or add an endorsement to their current policy. Availability and cost vary, and it is wise to consult your insurance provider about adding this coverage, especially if you live in the southeastern counties. The Missouri Department of Insurance and the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency offer guidance on earthquake insurance.

How to prepare your home

Taking action before an earthquake occurs can protect both your property and your family. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) recommend the following steps:

Secure heavy furniture and appliances, such as bookshelves, cabinets, water heaters, and refrigerators, to wall studs using brackets and straps.
Install flexible gas lines on water heaters and gas appliances to reduce the risk of gas leaks and fires.
Use earthquake-safe latches on kitchen and bathroom cabinets to prevent items from flying out.
Anchor televisions, computers, and other valuable electronics to surfaces.
Hang heavy pictures and mirrors away from beds and seating areas.
Replace traditional glass in windows and doors with tempered glass if possible.
Have a structural engineer inspect your home’s foundation. If your home was built before modern building codes, consider retrofits such as bolting the sill plate to the foundation.
Store important documents, and know how to turn off gas and water at the main shutoff valves.
Create an emergency kit with food, water, medications, and first aid supplies to sustain your household for at least 72 hours.

If you live in the New Madrid area, pay special attention to drainage and soil stability around your foundation. Consult local building authorities about site-specific risks and any recommended upgrades.

Frequently asked questions

Can earthquakes in Missouri be predicted?

No. Scientists cannot predict the exact time and location of an earthquake anywhere in the world, including Missouri. The USGS monitors fault lines and can estimate long-term probabilities, but there is no reliable short-term warning system. This is why preparedness is so important.

What should I do during an earthquake?

If you are indoors, drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck, and hold on to something sturdy. Stay inside until the shaking stops, and avoid doorways if possible. If you are outdoors, move away from buildings and power lines. If you are driving, stop your car in a clear spot and wait.

Does home insurance cover earthquake damage in Missouri?

No, standard homeowners insurance policies in Missouri do not cover earthquake damage. You need to purchase a separate earthquake policy or add an endorsement. This coverage is available through most insurance companies, though it may require a separate deductible based on a percentage of your home’s replacement cost.

Official resources

Last updated: August 11, 2026. Risk levels are state-wide estimates based on public hazard data — always verify your specific address with the official sources above.