Earthquakes risk in Nebraska

Earthquake Risk in Nebraska: What You Should Know

Nebraska sits in the heart of the North American tectonic plate, far from the boundaries where most of the world's significant earthquakes occur. The level of earthquake risk in Nebraska is classified as Level 1 — Very Low on FEMA's National Risk Index, which ranks every county across the United States. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the state's seismic hazard is minimal, and the chance of experiencing dangerous ground shaking is extremely small.

While the central United States is occasionally affected by the distant New Madrid Seismic Zone in southeastern Missouri and the Intermountain Seismic Belt in the Rocky Mountain region, the energy from these sources dissipates over the long distance. Nebraska's own geological structure is old and stable. The USGS earthquake catalog shows that only a handful of small earthquakes have been recorded within the state's borders over the past century, and none have caused significant damage or injuries.

Because earthquakes are caused by sudden slips along faults or volcanic activity, there is no "earthquake season" in Nebraska. The hazard is constant but very low. Unlike other states where induced seismicity from oil and gas production has increased tremor rates, Nebraska has not seen this phenomenon on a notable scale. That said, small, naturally occurring tremors can happen anywhere at any time, so it is still wise to understand the basics.

The areas most exposed are not specifically identified by risk maps, because the whole state is uniformly low. However, the southeastern Omaha and Lincoln region is slightly closer to the New Madrid zone, and the Sandhills region to the north has deeper bedrock and more unconsolidated sediment, but these differences do not change the overall risk level under FEMA's assessment.

How It Affects Homes

For most Nebraska homeowners, an earthquake is a non-event. The ground shaking from a small local quake or a distant large quake rarely exceeds what a standard home can tolerate. However, it is important to recognize that some types of construction can be more susceptible to even minor shaking than others.

Homes with brick or stone load-bearing walls, unreinforced masonry, or poorly anchored crawl-space foundations could develop cracks in the event of a noticeable tremor. Older homes, built before modern building codes, may also lack the shear walls and anchor bolts that today's codes require for seismic resistance—though they are built to handle local conditions. Chimneys and exterior veneers are common failure points during any ground movement.

In addition to structural concerns, an earthquake can cause interior hazards. Unsecured televisions, bookshelves, mirrors, hot water heaters, and heavy furniture can tip over or slide across the floor. These items are the leading cause of earthquake-related injuries, even in low-risk areas.

From an insurance standpoint, the standard homeowners policy in Nebraska explicitly excludes earthquake damage. If you want coverage, you need a separate earthquake endorsement or policy. In low-risk states like Nebraska, such policies are relatively inexpensive, but they often carry a high deductible (typically 5%–15% of the home's value). Many homeowners choose to accept the risk rather than pay the premium, but the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency encourages everyone to evaluate their financial vulnerability and to mitigate hazards at home.

How to Prepare Your Home

Although the probability of a damaging quake is low, taking a few simple steps can greatly reduce potential injury and property loss—whether from an earthquake or another sudden event. The following list is adapted from Ready.gov and FEMA guidance.

• Anchor tall, heavy furniture. Use brackets, straps, or wall studs to secure bookshelves, armoires, entertainment centers, and other top-heavy pieces. In a tremor, an unanchored bookshelf can easily topple.
• Strap the water heater. A water heater that is not secured can rupture its gas or water supply lines during shaking. Install a seismic strap around the tank and use flexible supply lines to prevent leaks.
• Secure electronics and wall hangings. Mount television screens, computers, and artwork with earthquake-resistant mounts. A falling television can be a serious hazard, especially in a nursery or home office.
• Install cabinet latches. Latches keep kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors closed, preventing dishes, glassware, and chemicals from spilling during an earthquake.
• Use putty or wire for decorative items. Secure vases, picture frames, and other valuables on shelves with earthquake putty. Use wires to attach heavy frames to wall hooks.
• Check your home's foundation. If your home is raised, inspect the crawl space for cracks or weakening in piers and concrete. If you see signs of instability, consult a licensed structural engineer.
• Maintain a home emergency kit. Keep water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, a whistle, medications, a first aid kit, and important documents in a plastic bin or bag. This kit will also serve you during tornadoes and blizzards.
• Know your gas and water shut-off valves. In the unlikely event of a leak, shut off utilities quickly. Clearly label the valves and keep the proper wrench nearby.

Preparedness does not require costly retrofitting. Even simple steps like these make a meaningful difference in the safety of your family and the resilience of your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a large earthquake happen in Nebraska?

The short answer is no—or at least not in the foreseeable future and within the framework of scientific knowledge. The USGS National Seismic Hazard Model places Nebraska in the lowest hazard class. Historical earthquake records, which span roughly 150 years, show no earthquakes above magnitude 5 in Nebraska. The state is located far from active fault boundaries, and the tectonic forces that push and pull the region are weak. A magnitude 6 or larger quake is extremely unlikely, and even a magnitude 5 would be a once-in-many-centuries event.

Does homeowners insurance cover earthquake damage in Nebraska?

No, it does not. Earthquake coverage is one of the standard exclusions in a homeowners, renters, or condo insurance policy, just like flood or sewer backup. To get coverage, you must purchase an earthquake insurer's endorsement or a standalone earthquake policy. In Nebraska, the premium is low because of the low risk, but consider that the deductible for a separate earthquake policy is usually a percentage of the home's replacement cost, which can be thousands of dollars. Many residents decide that the risk outweighs the benefit, but you should discuss the exact costs and terms with your insurance agent.

What should I do during an earthquake in Nebraska?

If you feel the ground shaking, follow the national recommendation from Ready.gov and FEMA: Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Drop to your hands and knees so the shaking cannot knock you over. Cover your head and neck with your arms, and, if possible, get under a sturdy table or desk. If no shelter is nearby, stay against an interior wall, away from windows, glass, and heavy objects. Hold on to your shelter until the shaking stops. Do not run outside—most injuries occur when people do. Once the shaking ceases, check for injuries, gas leaks, and structural damage, and have a professional inspect the home if you are concerned.

Official Resources

The following organizations provide authoritative information about earthquakes, safety, and risk in Nebraska.

• Nebraska Emergency Management Agency – State-level preparedness and hazard information.
• USGS Earthquake Hazards Program – Scientific data, historical seismicity, and hazard maps.
• Ready.gov – Earthquakes – Practical preparedness guides from the Department of Homeland Security.
• FEMA Earthquake Safety – Federal mitigation, codes, and safety information.